This devotional was written by Leslie Snyder
And whoever gives one of these little ones even a cup of cold water because he is a disciple, truly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward. —Matthew 10:42
Nothing quenches the thirst like water. Sports drinks, fruit juices, sodas and coffee provide the body with flavorful refreshment, but when the body thirsts, true satisfaction comes only from water. In the poignant reflection, A Severe Mercy, author Sheldon Vanauken candidly shares the story of the deep, bittersweet love he shared with his wife, Davy. In the beginning of their relationship, they defined a symbol of courtesy toward each other—a cup of water in the night—a courtesy that represented the selfless love one had for the other.
Giving a cup of cold water to another is both simple and inconvenient. If you are like me, you love the comfort of a warm bed. You likely have a favorite pillow, blanket or certain type of sheets that once wrapped around you are equal to a warm embrace. When I am this comfortable, I don't like to get out of bed for a cup of water for myself, let alone for someone else. Yet the simple act of leaving your personal comforts to care for the needs of another demonstrates the love Jesus shared with us when He left the ultimate comfort and joy of heaven to live life here on earth.
In the above passage, Jesus explains that no act of kindness, no matter how small, goes unnoticed or unrewarded when it is done in His name. In the book of Matthew, Jesus shares the story of the sheep and the goats, illustrating the difference between those who care for the simple needs of others and those who choose to look away. In Eugene Peterson's Bible paraphrase, The Message, he conveys Matthew 25:40 in this way, "Whenever you did one of these things to someone overlooked or ignored, that was me—you did it to me."
Serving another person is often inconvenient. It takes time, energy, personal resources, and sometimes, personal discomfort. It is so much easier to look away and to assume someone else will do it. However, Jesus invites us to serve Him by caring for the needs of others. Today and everyday the invitation remains. How will y ou respond?
GOING DEEPER: Identify one person you can serve today. Make a personal sacrifice to do so.
FURTHER READING:
Matthew 25:31-46
Colossians 3:17
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
No Pruning, No Fruit
Romans 8:28 And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.
Do you really believe God works for good in all things?
Being able to make that statement begins with acknowledging that God knows what He is doing. He is not only all-powerful, or sovereign, but also all-knowing. Even when pain and tragedy strike, we can trust God to know what is best for our good.
The problem is we don't know His plan. We would like to know the reason for our trials, but God doesn't always reveal it to us. We wonder how He could possibly cause this or that problem to work for good.
But through Scripture and the natural order, God gives us a hint that it can happen, even when we can't see how. Jesus said:
I AM the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit, He prunes it, that it may bear more fruit (John 15:1,2).
During the last several years, our own family has endured several such prunings. Barbara has weathered major heart surgery, the removal of a benign lump in her breast, five debilitating sinus infections, sinus surgery and Lyme's disease. And I have previously told of our son Samuel's bout with muscular dystrophy.
I don't know about you, but sometimes I grow a little weary from so many snips from pruning shears in my life.
But I really love the fruit bearing. While I wish it could happen without the pruning, life just doesn't work that way. Our family has experienced growth from the pruning. It has enriched my ministry to other families who hurt.
Scientists don't fully understand the pruning/fruit-bearing connection in the plant world. Why should I insist on understanding it in human lives? It's more important to bear fruit than to understand the pruning process.
Prayer: For the faith to believe that God can enable you to become "more than conquerors" over any hardship or tragedy in your life.
Discuss: How has God pruned you in the past in order to make you bear more fruit?
Do you really believe God works for good in all things?
Being able to make that statement begins with acknowledging that God knows what He is doing. He is not only all-powerful, or sovereign, but also all-knowing. Even when pain and tragedy strike, we can trust God to know what is best for our good.
The problem is we don't know His plan. We would like to know the reason for our trials, but God doesn't always reveal it to us. We wonder how He could possibly cause this or that problem to work for good.
But through Scripture and the natural order, God gives us a hint that it can happen, even when we can't see how. Jesus said:
I AM the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit, He prunes it, that it may bear more fruit (John 15:1,2).
During the last several years, our own family has endured several such prunings. Barbara has weathered major heart surgery, the removal of a benign lump in her breast, five debilitating sinus infections, sinus surgery and Lyme's disease. And I have previously told of our son Samuel's bout with muscular dystrophy.
I don't know about you, but sometimes I grow a little weary from so many snips from pruning shears in my life.
But I really love the fruit bearing. While I wish it could happen without the pruning, life just doesn't work that way. Our family has experienced growth from the pruning. It has enriched my ministry to other families who hurt.
Scientists don't fully understand the pruning/fruit-bearing connection in the plant world. Why should I insist on understanding it in human lives? It's more important to bear fruit than to understand the pruning process.
Prayer: For the faith to believe that God can enable you to become "more than conquerors" over any hardship or tragedy in your life.
Discuss: How has God pruned you in the past in order to make you bear more fruit?
Monday, September 28, 2009
The Greenhouse
Psalm 78:5 For He established a testimony in Jacob.
We all know the last words of Christ before He ascended to heaven-the Great Commission of Matthew 28:18-20, where He commands us to "make disciples of all the nations."
I'd like to point you to another passage in which God lays out an important part of His plan to fulfill that commission. Psalm 78:5-7 reads:
For He established a testimony in Jacob, and appointed a law in Israel, which He commanded our fathers, that they should teach them to their children, that the generation to come might know, even the children yet to be born, that they may arise and tell them to their children, that they should put their confidence in God, and not forget the works of God, but keep His commandments.
As I read Scripture, I see that God formed two institutions to pass His Word from one generation to the next. One, of course, is His Church. The other is the family. God's original plan called for the home to be a sort of greenhouse-a nurture center-where children grow up to learn godly character and biblical values.
As a parent, it's so easy to get caught up in the pressures of daily living-of changing diapers and settling sibling disputes and ferrying kids to piano lessons and scout meetings. From time to time you must look above that and remember that the most important work during your years on earth will be to teach your children how to know and love the Lord God. Through your words and your actions, your very life, you have the power to shape the future of our nation by shaping a few of the people who live in it.
I love what Charles Swindoll says about the importance of a family and a home in this process:
Whatever else may be said about the home, it is the bottom line of life. The anvil upon which attitudes and convictions are hammered out. The single most influential force in our earthly existence. It is at home, among family members, that we come to terms with circumstances. It is here that life makes up its mind.
Prayer: Ask God to give you wisdom in raising the next generation and imparting biblical values.
Discuss: What convictions and values do you want to pass on to your children?
We all know the last words of Christ before He ascended to heaven-the Great Commission of Matthew 28:18-20, where He commands us to "make disciples of all the nations."
I'd like to point you to another passage in which God lays out an important part of His plan to fulfill that commission. Psalm 78:5-7 reads:
For He established a testimony in Jacob, and appointed a law in Israel, which He commanded our fathers, that they should teach them to their children, that the generation to come might know, even the children yet to be born, that they may arise and tell them to their children, that they should put their confidence in God, and not forget the works of God, but keep His commandments.
As I read Scripture, I see that God formed two institutions to pass His Word from one generation to the next. One, of course, is His Church. The other is the family. God's original plan called for the home to be a sort of greenhouse-a nurture center-where children grow up to learn godly character and biblical values.
As a parent, it's so easy to get caught up in the pressures of daily living-of changing diapers and settling sibling disputes and ferrying kids to piano lessons and scout meetings. From time to time you must look above that and remember that the most important work during your years on earth will be to teach your children how to know and love the Lord God. Through your words and your actions, your very life, you have the power to shape the future of our nation by shaping a few of the people who live in it.
I love what Charles Swindoll says about the importance of a family and a home in this process:
Whatever else may be said about the home, it is the bottom line of life. The anvil upon which attitudes and convictions are hammered out. The single most influential force in our earthly existence. It is at home, among family members, that we come to terms with circumstances. It is here that life makes up its mind.
Prayer: Ask God to give you wisdom in raising the next generation and imparting biblical values.
Discuss: What convictions and values do you want to pass on to your children?
Friday, September 25, 2009
Three Steps to Becoming Accountable
Proverbs 27:17 Iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.
While your mate should be your primary accountability partner, there also is great benefit in getting "sharpened" by other godly Christians. If you want to see some significant growth in your spiritual maturity this may be the most important step you could take.
I have three suggestions:
First, determine your needs. What are the two or three things that seem to entangle you more than anything else? Is it finances? Lustful thoughts? Overeating? Not spending enough time with the Lord?
Second, select a mature Christian-of the same sex-who would have the courage to speak the truth and ask you tough questions. This should not be someone who would fear your rejection, or someone who has a weakness in the same area, or someone you feel you can manipulate or control. This is especially important if you are strong-willed or have a powerful personality.
Third, approach this person and ask him to keep you accountable. Here is what you might say: "Bill, I have a problem and I really need your help in an area of my life. I need for you to love me through this and hold my feet to the fire, but not be judgmental. Because, Bill, I really need to get victory over this."
Finally, meet with this person on a regular basis to set measurable goals and to allow him to ask you how you're doing. Agree to a list of questions he will ask you. "Frank, have you written out a budget yet?" "Why not?" "When will you do it?" And here's a powerful one: "Have you lied to me at all today?"
If you're trying to mature in Christ and gain victory over sin by yourself, you're missing it! Praise God that He has given us the body of Christ...to strengthen us, encourage us and keep us accountable!
Prayer: That God would lead you to people who He can use to sharpen you.
Discuss: What are your greatest needs that would lead you to find an accountability partner? Who are potential accountability partners you could approach?
While your mate should be your primary accountability partner, there also is great benefit in getting "sharpened" by other godly Christians. If you want to see some significant growth in your spiritual maturity this may be the most important step you could take.
I have three suggestions:
First, determine your needs. What are the two or three things that seem to entangle you more than anything else? Is it finances? Lustful thoughts? Overeating? Not spending enough time with the Lord?
Second, select a mature Christian-of the same sex-who would have the courage to speak the truth and ask you tough questions. This should not be someone who would fear your rejection, or someone who has a weakness in the same area, or someone you feel you can manipulate or control. This is especially important if you are strong-willed or have a powerful personality.
Third, approach this person and ask him to keep you accountable. Here is what you might say: "Bill, I have a problem and I really need your help in an area of my life. I need for you to love me through this and hold my feet to the fire, but not be judgmental. Because, Bill, I really need to get victory over this."
Finally, meet with this person on a regular basis to set measurable goals and to allow him to ask you how you're doing. Agree to a list of questions he will ask you. "Frank, have you written out a budget yet?" "Why not?" "When will you do it?" And here's a powerful one: "Have you lied to me at all today?"
If you're trying to mature in Christ and gain victory over sin by yourself, you're missing it! Praise God that He has given us the body of Christ...to strengthen us, encourage us and keep us accountable!
Prayer: That God would lead you to people who He can use to sharpen you.
Discuss: What are your greatest needs that would lead you to find an accountability partner? Who are potential accountability partners you could approach?
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Accountability in Marriage
Ecclesiastes 4:9,10 Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor. For if either of them falls, the one will lift up his companion.
More than anyone else, I have determined that I will be accountable to my wife, Barbara.
Marriage is a perfect arena for accountability. As you and your mate face continuing pressures and stress, it's best to handle life in duet, not solo. Two can always see more clearly than one. Your mate can detect blind spots that you may not be able to see.
Here are some areas where Barbara and I practice accountability in our marriage:
Schedules: We try to help each other make good decisions by monitoring each other's workload and schedule. When somebody invites me to speak somewhere, I say, "I can't give you an answer now. My wife and I have agreed that I don't take any speaking engagements without talking with her." And so we do talk about it, and Barbara helps me say no.
Money and values: We constantly check our personal values. What is really important to each of us? Why are we doing what we are doing? Where do we dare not lose?
Fidelity: Some years ago I led a Bible study that included several new Christians. During those studies, Barbara began to sense that one of the men was increasingly friendly toward her. At first she thought she was imagining things, so she kept it to herself. When she finally told me what was happening, I could see unmistakable relief spread across her face. What had been her personal secret quickly evaporated as we discussed her feelings together.
Fortunately, Barbara's admirer never tried going beyond being friendly. But looking back on that incident, we see that it was a test for both of us. It reaffirmed our commitment to each other as we stood together against a potential threat to our marriage.
Your spouse should be your number one accountability partner.
Prayer: That God would use accountability to your mate to help you and your spouse grow closer to Christ and preserve your marriage.
Discuss: Do you feel free to be accountable to your mate? Why? Why not? If appropriate, discuss accountability with your spouse.
More than anyone else, I have determined that I will be accountable to my wife, Barbara.
Marriage is a perfect arena for accountability. As you and your mate face continuing pressures and stress, it's best to handle life in duet, not solo. Two can always see more clearly than one. Your mate can detect blind spots that you may not be able to see.
Here are some areas where Barbara and I practice accountability in our marriage:
Schedules: We try to help each other make good decisions by monitoring each other's workload and schedule. When somebody invites me to speak somewhere, I say, "I can't give you an answer now. My wife and I have agreed that I don't take any speaking engagements without talking with her." And so we do talk about it, and Barbara helps me say no.
Money and values: We constantly check our personal values. What is really important to each of us? Why are we doing what we are doing? Where do we dare not lose?
Fidelity: Some years ago I led a Bible study that included several new Christians. During those studies, Barbara began to sense that one of the men was increasingly friendly toward her. At first she thought she was imagining things, so she kept it to herself. When she finally told me what was happening, I could see unmistakable relief spread across her face. What had been her personal secret quickly evaporated as we discussed her feelings together.
Fortunately, Barbara's admirer never tried going beyond being friendly. But looking back on that incident, we see that it was a test for both of us. It reaffirmed our commitment to each other as we stood together against a potential threat to our marriage.
Your spouse should be your number one accountability partner.
Prayer: That God would use accountability to your mate to help you and your spouse grow closer to Christ and preserve your marriage.
Discuss: Do you feel free to be accountable to your mate? Why? Why not? If appropriate, discuss accountability with your spouse.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
The Benefits of Accountability
Ephesians 5:21 And be subject to one another in the fear of Christ.
Back in the 1800s, a husband in a village of Pennsylvania Quakers was beating his wife. The other men in the village decided to take action. One man wrote, "...a bunch of us men went over there and took all of his clothes off and drug him through a field of thistles backwards. Then we told him, if he continued to deal unkindly with his wife, we were not going to take to it very lightly. We were going to get upset next time."
I'm not advocating such extreme measures when I encourage you to be accountable to other people. But I do think there are many benefits to it.
Look again at Ephesians 5:21 (above). People don't like the phrase "be subject to one another" these days. The independent "give me my rights" spirit in America conflicts with the thought of being subject to other people.
But accountability helps you in so many ways. For one thing, it helps protect you-from isolation, from pride, from sin, from giving in to temptation and weakness. One of the best ways I know to protect you from those weaknesses is to let someone know about them and ask that person to keep you accountable.
My friends Stu and Linda Weber shared how they were driving in a blizzard on a dangerous, narrow road in the mountains when their car spun out of control. Just as they were about to slide over the edge and to their deaths, the car smashed into a guardrail. That guardrail is just like a friend who can protect us from disaster and even death.
Accountability also helps you avoid extremes. Without someone who can give you an objective evaluation of who you are and what you do, you will have a difficult time keeping balance in your life. For example, if you are accountable to someone for your goals, that person can help you decide if your goals are realistic and how you should spend your time attempting to meet them.
A final benefit is that it can help you stay focused on your dreams. Are you getting so caught up in the minutia of life that you are not accomplishing what you feel like God called you to do? Nothing may help you more than to define your goals and stay accountable to someone for reaching them.
Accountability is absolutely essential if we are to experience all that God has created us to be and to do.
Prayer: That God will lead you to some people who will love you enough to protect you and help you stay focused on what God wants to do through you.
Discuss: How would you personally benefit from accountability?
Back in the 1800s, a husband in a village of Pennsylvania Quakers was beating his wife. The other men in the village decided to take action. One man wrote, "...a bunch of us men went over there and took all of his clothes off and drug him through a field of thistles backwards. Then we told him, if he continued to deal unkindly with his wife, we were not going to take to it very lightly. We were going to get upset next time."
I'm not advocating such extreme measures when I encourage you to be accountable to other people. But I do think there are many benefits to it.
Look again at Ephesians 5:21 (above). People don't like the phrase "be subject to one another" these days. The independent "give me my rights" spirit in America conflicts with the thought of being subject to other people.
But accountability helps you in so many ways. For one thing, it helps protect you-from isolation, from pride, from sin, from giving in to temptation and weakness. One of the best ways I know to protect you from those weaknesses is to let someone know about them and ask that person to keep you accountable.
My friends Stu and Linda Weber shared how they were driving in a blizzard on a dangerous, narrow road in the mountains when their car spun out of control. Just as they were about to slide over the edge and to their deaths, the car smashed into a guardrail. That guardrail is just like a friend who can protect us from disaster and even death.
Accountability also helps you avoid extremes. Without someone who can give you an objective evaluation of who you are and what you do, you will have a difficult time keeping balance in your life. For example, if you are accountable to someone for your goals, that person can help you decide if your goals are realistic and how you should spend your time attempting to meet them.
A final benefit is that it can help you stay focused on your dreams. Are you getting so caught up in the minutia of life that you are not accomplishing what you feel like God called you to do? Nothing may help you more than to define your goals and stay accountable to someone for reaching them.
Accountability is absolutely essential if we are to experience all that God has created us to be and to do.
Prayer: That God will lead you to some people who will love you enough to protect you and help you stay focused on what God wants to do through you.
Discuss: How would you personally benefit from accountability?
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Characteristics of the Unaccountable
Proverbs 9:8,9 Reprove a wise man, and he will love you. Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser.
I believe if there is anything that can ensure and incorporate character, godly character in your life and in mine, it is through accountability. You don't have to go long before you learn of some Christian pastor, singer, evangelist or ministry leader who has lost his or her ministry, usually because of adultery. And because of my position I hear many more stories that never made it into the media.
I once sat down and wrote a list of characteristics of people who have fallen to temptation. Over and over, this is how other people described them:
It's amazing to see how these descriptions pop up again and again. They are isolated, keeping people at arm's length, and not willing to submit themselves to the scrutiny of others.
When you are isolated, you are much more susceptible to temptation. Years ago I attended a Christian writers' conference in Minneapolis. I was walking down the stairwell in the hotel when I looked down and saw a pornographic magazine lying there. I walked on, but later in the day I saw it in the same spot.
Here I was, alone in Minneapolis. I could pick up that magazine, carry it a few feet to my door and read it in the privacy of my room, and nobody would ever know.
Fortunately, I made the correct decision and left the magazine alone. But I could understand the power of temptation to a person who is alone. Isolation is one of the most powerful weapons the enemy uses to trap Christians.
Prayer: That you would have the strength and wisdom to avoid situations where you are isolated from others.
Discuss: In what situations do you find yourself most open to temptation?
I believe if there is anything that can ensure and incorporate character, godly character in your life and in mine, it is through accountability. You don't have to go long before you learn of some Christian pastor, singer, evangelist or ministry leader who has lost his or her ministry, usually because of adultery. And because of my position I hear many more stories that never made it into the media.
I once sat down and wrote a list of characteristics of people who have fallen to temptation. Over and over, this is how other people described them:
- A loose spirit with few boundaries;
- Rationalizes and justifies behavior;
- Detached, reclusive, insulated from people;
- Makes decisions without consulting others;
- A lack of authenticity and realness about his or her life;
- Defensive, proud, unwilling to admit mistakes and failure;
- Hides major areas of life from others;
- Intimidating, unapproachable, secretive.
It's amazing to see how these descriptions pop up again and again. They are isolated, keeping people at arm's length, and not willing to submit themselves to the scrutiny of others.
When you are isolated, you are much more susceptible to temptation. Years ago I attended a Christian writers' conference in Minneapolis. I was walking down the stairwell in the hotel when I looked down and saw a pornographic magazine lying there. I walked on, but later in the day I saw it in the same spot.
Here I was, alone in Minneapolis. I could pick up that magazine, carry it a few feet to my door and read it in the privacy of my room, and nobody would ever know.
Fortunately, I made the correct decision and left the magazine alone. But I could understand the power of temptation to a person who is alone. Isolation is one of the most powerful weapons the enemy uses to trap Christians.
Prayer: That you would have the strength and wisdom to avoid situations where you are isolated from others.
Discuss: In what situations do you find yourself most open to temptation?
Monday, September 21, 2009
Accountability: Your Personal Alarm System
Ephesians 5:21 And be subject to one another in the fear of Christ.
One of the tallest skyscrapers in New England is the John Hancock Building in Boston. When this structure of over 40 floors was built, there were all kinds of problems with the windows. During the stress of the freezing and thawing of the New England winter, the windows actually popped out of their frames and shattered. People walking on the sidewalk below were showered with glass. Businessmen working at their desks suddenly found themselves seated a few inches from nothing, staring straight down at the street.
The architects and contractors got together and finally decided to install a small alarm system in each window. When the windows began to bulge and contract, the alarm system would let maintenance people know so they could make adjustments that would take tension off the glass before it blew out and shattered.
I believe every person needs an alarm system that can help him or her relieve the tension before something shatters. One of the best alarm systems I know of is to become accountable to each other.
Accountability is a scriptural principle that tells us to "be subject to one another in the fear of Christ." This means I choose to submit my life to the scrutiny of another person to gain spiritual strength, growth and balance.
Accountability means asking the other person for advice. It means giving the other person the freedom to make honest observations and evaluations about you. It means we're teachable and approachable.
For me as a husband, father and leader of a growing ministry, accountability has not been an option. It has been a crucial ingredient in my Christian growth.
Some people challenge me on this subject, saying that becoming accountable to one another would be like playing policeman. But the opposite is true. And I'd like to explain why during the next few devotions.
Prayer: For humility and vulnerability, and that your life will be an open book before the Lord, before your family and before some selected Christians who you trust.
Discuss: Do you find the concept of being accountable to another person uncomfortable? Why?
One of the tallest skyscrapers in New England is the John Hancock Building in Boston. When this structure of over 40 floors was built, there were all kinds of problems with the windows. During the stress of the freezing and thawing of the New England winter, the windows actually popped out of their frames and shattered. People walking on the sidewalk below were showered with glass. Businessmen working at their desks suddenly found themselves seated a few inches from nothing, staring straight down at the street.
The architects and contractors got together and finally decided to install a small alarm system in each window. When the windows began to bulge and contract, the alarm system would let maintenance people know so they could make adjustments that would take tension off the glass before it blew out and shattered.
I believe every person needs an alarm system that can help him or her relieve the tension before something shatters. One of the best alarm systems I know of is to become accountable to each other.
Accountability is a scriptural principle that tells us to "be subject to one another in the fear of Christ." This means I choose to submit my life to the scrutiny of another person to gain spiritual strength, growth and balance.
Accountability means asking the other person for advice. It means giving the other person the freedom to make honest observations and evaluations about you. It means we're teachable and approachable.
For me as a husband, father and leader of a growing ministry, accountability has not been an option. It has been a crucial ingredient in my Christian growth.
Some people challenge me on this subject, saying that becoming accountable to one another would be like playing policeman. But the opposite is true. And I'd like to explain why during the next few devotions.
Prayer: For humility and vulnerability, and that your life will be an open book before the Lord, before your family and before some selected Christians who you trust.
Discuss: Do you find the concept of being accountable to another person uncomfortable? Why?
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
A Child of God
Devotion provided by Peter Wallace; from What the Psalmist Is Saying to You
I am like a green olive tree in the house of God; I trust in the mercy of God forever and ever. --Psalm 52:8
A tree stands in the courtyard. Immovable. Unshakable. With roots deep in the rich earth, drawing strength, support, and sustenance.
An olive tree is evergreen. Always alive, always growing, limbs spreading and greenery flourishing. That was how David pictured himself as a child of God. The question of his place in the world had been settled. He would trust in God's love forever and ever.
I am like a green olive tree in the house of God; I trust in the mercy of God forever and ever. --Psalm 52:8
A tree stands in the courtyard. Immovable. Unshakable. With roots deep in the rich earth, drawing strength, support, and sustenance.
An olive tree is evergreen. Always alive, always growing, limbs spreading and greenery flourishing. That was how David pictured himself as a child of God. The question of his place in the world had been settled. He would trust in God's love forever and ever.
Monday, September 14, 2009
The Desires of Your Heart
Psalm 37:1-8 - A psalm of David.
1 Don’t worry about the wicked
or envy those who do wrong.
2 For like grass, they soon fade away.
Like spring flowers, they soon wither.
3 Trust in the Lord and do good.
Then you will live safely in the land and prosper.
4 Take delight in the Lord,
and he will give you your heart’s desires.
5 Commit everything you do to the Lord.
Trust him, and he will help you.
6 He will make your innocence radiate like the dawn,
and the justice of your cause will shine like the noonday sun.
7 Be still in the presence of the Lord,
and wait patiently for him to act.
Don’t worry about evil people who prosper
or fret about their wicked schemes.
8 Stop being angry!
Turn from your rage!
Do not lose your temper—
it only leads to harm.
Context is very important to our understanding of God's Word and His ways. But I repeatedly hear one promise quoted apart from its scriptural framework: "God said He would give me the desires of my heart, and so I'm trusting Him to do that." I would not dispute the Lord's promise because He certainly did commit to blessing His children. However, believers must ready themselves to receive God's blessings by doing some spiritual housekeeping.
A person's capacity to desire is from God. Aspirations motivate people to hard work and achievement. Our yearnings can also inspire and energize us. Just think how boring life would be if we had nothing to work toward. The nature of one's ambitions reveals that person's character and sense of purpose. Furthermore, the way in which someone goes about fulfilling them says a lot about his or her understanding of God and His providence. Righteous desires are the result of a growing relationship with the Lord.
In today's passage, believers are told what is required before they can lay claim to God's promise of fulfilling their desires: they must delight in Him (v. 4), commit their ways to Him (v. 5), trust Him (v. 5), and rest in Him (v. 7). All of these spiritual activities are part of a maturing faith.
If we disregard the context of God's promise, our hearts will be troubled rather than blessed. People get to fretting when their requests seem to go unnoticed. But believers can't ignore scriptural directives. We must submit our desires to the Lord and patiently trust Him to fill them, if that is His will.
For more biblical teaching and resources from Dr. Charles Stanley, please visit www.intouch.org
1 Don’t worry about the wicked
or envy those who do wrong.
2 For like grass, they soon fade away.
Like spring flowers, they soon wither.
3 Trust in the Lord and do good.
Then you will live safely in the land and prosper.
4 Take delight in the Lord,
and he will give you your heart’s desires.
5 Commit everything you do to the Lord.
Trust him, and he will help you.
6 He will make your innocence radiate like the dawn,
and the justice of your cause will shine like the noonday sun.
7 Be still in the presence of the Lord,
and wait patiently for him to act.
Don’t worry about evil people who prosper
or fret about their wicked schemes.
8 Stop being angry!
Turn from your rage!
Do not lose your temper—
it only leads to harm.
Context is very important to our understanding of God's Word and His ways. But I repeatedly hear one promise quoted apart from its scriptural framework: "God said He would give me the desires of my heart, and so I'm trusting Him to do that." I would not dispute the Lord's promise because He certainly did commit to blessing His children. However, believers must ready themselves to receive God's blessings by doing some spiritual housekeeping.
A person's capacity to desire is from God. Aspirations motivate people to hard work and achievement. Our yearnings can also inspire and energize us. Just think how boring life would be if we had nothing to work toward. The nature of one's ambitions reveals that person's character and sense of purpose. Furthermore, the way in which someone goes about fulfilling them says a lot about his or her understanding of God and His providence. Righteous desires are the result of a growing relationship with the Lord.
In today's passage, believers are told what is required before they can lay claim to God's promise of fulfilling their desires: they must delight in Him (v. 4), commit their ways to Him (v. 5), trust Him (v. 5), and rest in Him (v. 7). All of these spiritual activities are part of a maturing faith.
If we disregard the context of God's promise, our hearts will be troubled rather than blessed. People get to fretting when their requests seem to go unnoticed. But believers can't ignore scriptural directives. We must submit our desires to the Lord and patiently trust Him to fill them, if that is His will.
For more biblical teaching and resources from Dr. Charles Stanley, please visit www.intouch.org
Slow Me Down, Lord
This devotional was written by Jim Burns
Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of it's own. —Matthew 6:33-34
We live in a fast-paced society where at times we can become seduced by a culture that takes our mind off the Lord. To keep in touch with Jesus we must slow down our fierce pace and give Jesus our time and attention. This prayer has helped me for years with my tendency to over commit my life to unimportant things and leave God on the sideline.
Slow me down, Lord. Ease the pounding of my heart by the quieting of my mind. Steady my hurried pace with a vision of the eternal reach of time. Give me, amid the confusion of the day, the calmness of the everlasting hills. Break the tensions of my nerves and muscles with the soothing music of the singing streams that live in my memory. Teach me the art of taking minute vacations - of slowing down to look at a flower, to chat with a friend, to pat a dog, to smile at a child, to read a few lines from a good book. Slow me down, Lord, and inspire me to send my roots deep into the soil of life's enduring values, that I may grow toward my greater destiny. Remind me each day that the race is not always to the swift; that there is more to life than increasing its speed. Let me look upward to the towering oak and know that it grew great and strong because it grew slowly and well.
GOING DEEPER:
Psalm 37:4 Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desires. (NLT)
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. (NIV)
Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of it's own. —Matthew 6:33-34
We live in a fast-paced society where at times we can become seduced by a culture that takes our mind off the Lord. To keep in touch with Jesus we must slow down our fierce pace and give Jesus our time and attention. This prayer has helped me for years with my tendency to over commit my life to unimportant things and leave God on the sideline.
Slow me down, Lord. Ease the pounding of my heart by the quieting of my mind. Steady my hurried pace with a vision of the eternal reach of time. Give me, amid the confusion of the day, the calmness of the everlasting hills. Break the tensions of my nerves and muscles with the soothing music of the singing streams that live in my memory. Teach me the art of taking minute vacations - of slowing down to look at a flower, to chat with a friend, to pat a dog, to smile at a child, to read a few lines from a good book. Slow me down, Lord, and inspire me to send my roots deep into the soil of life's enduring values, that I may grow toward my greater destiny. Remind me each day that the race is not always to the swift; that there is more to life than increasing its speed. Let me look upward to the towering oak and know that it grew great and strong because it grew slowly and well.
—Orin D. Crain
GOING DEEPER:
- After reading Matthew 6:33-34 what does the Bible suggest be our first priority?
- Are your priorities in proper perspective? Take a few minutes to give God your priorities and seek His kingdom first.
Psalm 37:4 Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desires. (NLT)
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. (NIV)
Friday, September 11, 2009
Do It Again, Lord
by Max Lucado
Dear Lord,
We're still hoping we'll wake up. We're still hoping we'll open a sleepy eye and think, What a horrible dream.
But we won't, will we, Father? What we saw was not a dream. Planes did gouge towers. Flames did consume our fortress. People did perish. It was no dream and, dear Father, we are sad.
There is a ballet dancer who will no longer dance and a doctor who will no longer heal. A church has lost her priest, a classroom is minus a teacher. Cora ran a food pantry. Paige was a counselor and Dana, dearest Father, Dana was only three years old. (Who held her in those final moments?)
We are sad, Father. For as the innocent are buried, our innocence is buried as well. We thought we were safe. Perhaps we should have known better. But we didn't.
And so we come to you. We don't ask you for help; we beg you for it. We don't request it; we implore it. We know what you can do. We've read the accounts. We've pondered the stories and now we plead, Do it again, Lord. Do it again.
Remember Joseph? You rescued him from the pit. You can do the same for us. Do it again, Lord.
Remember the Hebrews in Egypt? You protected their children from the angel of death. We have children, too, Lord. Do it again.
And Sarah? Remember her prayers? You heard them. Joshua? Remember his fears? You inspired him. The women at the tomb? You resurrected their hope. The doubts of Thomas? You took them away. Do it again, Lord. Do it again.
You changed Daniel from a captive into a king's counselor. You took Peter the fisherman and made him Peter an apostle. Because of you, David went from leading sheep to leading armies. Do it again, Lord, for we need counselors today, Lord. We need apostles. We need leaders. Do it again, dear Lord.
Most of all, do again what you did at Calvary. What we saw here on that Tuesday, you saw there on that Friday. Innocence slaughtered. Goodness murdered. Mothers weeping. Evil dancing. Just as the ash fell on our children, the darkness fell on your Son. Just as our towers were shattered, the very Tower of Eternity was pierced.
And by dusk, heaven's sweetest song was silent, buried behind a rock.
But you did not waver, O Lord. You did not waver. After three days in a dark hole, you rolled the rock and rumbled the earth and turned the darkest Friday into the brightest Sunday. Do it again, Lord. Grant us a September Easter.
We thank you, dear Father, for these hours of unity. Disaster has done what discussion could not. Doctrinal fences have fallen.Republicans are standing with Democrats. Skin colors have been covered by the ash of burning buildings. We thank you for these hours of unity.
And we thank you for these hours of prayer. The Enemy sought to bring us to our knees and succeeded. He had no idea, however, that we would kneel before you. And he has no idea what you can do.
Let your mercy be upon our President, Vice President, and their families. Grant to those who lead us wisdom beyond their years and experience. Have mercy upon the souls who have departed and the wounded who remain. Give us grace that we might forgive and faith that we might believe.
And look kindly upon your church. For two thousand years you've used her to heal a hurting world.
Do it again, Lord. Do it again.
Through Christ,
Amen.
Dear Lord,
We're still hoping we'll wake up. We're still hoping we'll open a sleepy eye and think, What a horrible dream.
But we won't, will we, Father? What we saw was not a dream. Planes did gouge towers. Flames did consume our fortress. People did perish. It was no dream and, dear Father, we are sad.
There is a ballet dancer who will no longer dance and a doctor who will no longer heal. A church has lost her priest, a classroom is minus a teacher. Cora ran a food pantry. Paige was a counselor and Dana, dearest Father, Dana was only three years old. (Who held her in those final moments?)
We are sad, Father. For as the innocent are buried, our innocence is buried as well. We thought we were safe. Perhaps we should have known better. But we didn't.
And so we come to you. We don't ask you for help; we beg you for it. We don't request it; we implore it. We know what you can do. We've read the accounts. We've pondered the stories and now we plead, Do it again, Lord. Do it again.
Remember Joseph? You rescued him from the pit. You can do the same for us. Do it again, Lord.
Remember the Hebrews in Egypt? You protected their children from the angel of death. We have children, too, Lord. Do it again.
And Sarah? Remember her prayers? You heard them. Joshua? Remember his fears? You inspired him. The women at the tomb? You resurrected their hope. The doubts of Thomas? You took them away. Do it again, Lord. Do it again.
You changed Daniel from a captive into a king's counselor. You took Peter the fisherman and made him Peter an apostle. Because of you, David went from leading sheep to leading armies. Do it again, Lord, for we need counselors today, Lord. We need apostles. We need leaders. Do it again, dear Lord.
Most of all, do again what you did at Calvary. What we saw here on that Tuesday, you saw there on that Friday. Innocence slaughtered. Goodness murdered. Mothers weeping. Evil dancing. Just as the ash fell on our children, the darkness fell on your Son. Just as our towers were shattered, the very Tower of Eternity was pierced.
And by dusk, heaven's sweetest song was silent, buried behind a rock.
But you did not waver, O Lord. You did not waver. After three days in a dark hole, you rolled the rock and rumbled the earth and turned the darkest Friday into the brightest Sunday. Do it again, Lord. Grant us a September Easter.
We thank you, dear Father, for these hours of unity. Disaster has done what discussion could not. Doctrinal fences have fallen.Republicans are standing with Democrats. Skin colors have been covered by the ash of burning buildings. We thank you for these hours of unity.
And we thank you for these hours of prayer. The Enemy sought to bring us to our knees and succeeded. He had no idea, however, that we would kneel before you. And he has no idea what you can do.
Let your mercy be upon our President, Vice President, and their families. Grant to those who lead us wisdom beyond their years and experience. Have mercy upon the souls who have departed and the wounded who remain. Give us grace that we might forgive and faith that we might believe.
And look kindly upon your church. For two thousand years you've used her to heal a hurting world.
Do it again, Lord. Do it again.
Through Christ,
Amen.
As written by Max Lucado for America Prays, a national prayer vigil held Saturday, September 14, 2001. Permission to copy not only granted but encouraged. Also available on MaxLucado.com.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Accepting Graduated Responsibility
There is an oft-neglected principle taught in the New Testament. I call it the principle of "graduated responsibility." This principle is taught by Jesus in Luke 12:48: "From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded" (NIV).
This saying is part of the parable of the faithful steward. It underscores the terms of the judgment the lord in the parable renders to his servants. The punishment meted out is given in direct proportion to the prior knowledge each servant had:
"That servant who knows his master's will and does not get ready or does not do what his master wants will be beaten with many blows. But the one who does not know and does things deserving punishment will be beaten with few blows." (vv. 47-48, NIV)
Here we see that judgment and punishment are rendered according to knowledge as well as action. The greater the knowledge, the greater the accountability.
Coram Deo: Living in the Presence of God
Are you a faithful steward over all that God has entrusted to you?
For Further Study
Luke 12:47-48: "And that servant who knew his master's will, and did not prepare himself or do according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes. But he who did not know, yet committed things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few. For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required; and to whom much has been committed, of him they will ask the more."
1 Corinthians 4:2: "Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful."
© R.C. Sproul. All rights reserved.
This saying is part of the parable of the faithful steward. It underscores the terms of the judgment the lord in the parable renders to his servants. The punishment meted out is given in direct proportion to the prior knowledge each servant had:
"That servant who knows his master's will and does not get ready or does not do what his master wants will be beaten with many blows. But the one who does not know and does things deserving punishment will be beaten with few blows." (vv. 47-48, NIV)
Here we see that judgment and punishment are rendered according to knowledge as well as action. The greater the knowledge, the greater the accountability.
Coram Deo: Living in the Presence of God
Are you a faithful steward over all that God has entrusted to you?
For Further Study
Luke 12:47-48: "And that servant who knew his master's will, and did not prepare himself or do according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes. But he who did not know, yet committed things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few. For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required; and to whom much has been committed, of him they will ask the more."
1 Corinthians 4:2: "Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful."
© R.C. Sproul. All rights reserved.
Wednesday, September 09, 2009
Scripture
All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.
--2 Timothy 3:16
In Ephesians 6:10-12, the apostle Paul reminds us that you and I are in a daily battle against evil.
He says, "Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places."
Putting on the "armor of God" includes taking up the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. Becoming a fully committed follower of the Lord Jesus Christ begins by picking up your sword each day!
As we see in today's verse, the Bible is not a human book. It's a God-given book! And it is sufficient for your every need.
That's why I want to encourage you to have a daily time of devotion and discipline where you open God's Word and ask God to speak to you through the Scriptures.
I want to also encourage you to take your Bible with you when you gather with other believers in worship. And take a pen with you so you can underline or highlight some Scriptures, take a few notes, and really engage.
Taking up the sword of the Spirit each day is the only way you'll be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might, able to withstand the attacks of our enemy, the devil.
It's the only way you'll be able to stand strong in the spiritual battle you face every day!
HAVE YOU SPENT TIME IN GOD'S WORD TODAY? IF NOT, TAKE SOME TIME, ASKING HIM TO SPEAK TO YOU THROUGH THE SCRIPTURES.
Tuesday, September 08, 2009
Teach me to do your will.
Teach me to do your will, for you are my God;
may your good Spirit lead me on level ground.
Psalm 143:10
Thoughts on today's verse:
We want the Spirit to be at work in us to make us like Jesus. For this to happen, we must open our heart to the will of God. There are no greater words God wants to hear than "teach me to do your will." That is what it means for him to be God, to have control over our life and our will.
Prayer:
Almighty God, I want you to truly be God in my life. I renounce any attempt on my part to try to manipulate or use your grace and kindness for my benefit. I submit my will to yours. But Holy Father, I confess that I struggle at times with my own selfish and evil desires that lead me astray. Please forgive me when my heart is cold and my ears are deaf to your will. Please, take control of my life today. Through Jesus my Lord, I ask you to assert your will as God in my life. Amen. '
Friday, September 04, 2009
Treasuring Redemption's Price
The key to understanding the cry of Jesus from the cross is found in Paul's letter to the Galatians:
To be cursed is to be removed from the presence of God, to be set outside the camp, to be cut off from His benefits. On the cross, Jesus was cursed. That is, He represented the Jewish nation of covenant breakers who were exposed to the curse and took the full measure of the curse on Himself. As the Lamb of God, the Sin Bearer, He was cut off from the presence of God.
On the cross, Jesus entered into the experience of forsakenness on our behalf. God turned His back on Jesus and cut Him off from all blessing, from all keeping, from all grace, and from all peace.
God is too holy to even look at iniquity. God the Father turned His back on the Son, cursing Him to the pit of hell while He hung on the cross. Here was the Son's "descent into hell." Here the fury of God raged against Him. His scream was the scream of the damned. For us.
Coram Deo: Living in the Presence of God
Reflect on what Jesus did for you on Calvary. Give thanks for the Lamb of God who bore your sin.
For Further Study
Matthew 27:46: "And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, 'Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?' that is, 'My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?'"
Galatians 3:13: "Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, 'Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree')."
Galatians 3:10: "For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse; for it is written, 'Cursed is everyone who does not continue in all things which are written in the book of the law, to do them.'"
© R.C. Sproul. All rights reserved.
"Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: ‘Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree'" Gal. 3:13, NIV
To be cursed is to be removed from the presence of God, to be set outside the camp, to be cut off from His benefits. On the cross, Jesus was cursed. That is, He represented the Jewish nation of covenant breakers who were exposed to the curse and took the full measure of the curse on Himself. As the Lamb of God, the Sin Bearer, He was cut off from the presence of God.
On the cross, Jesus entered into the experience of forsakenness on our behalf. God turned His back on Jesus and cut Him off from all blessing, from all keeping, from all grace, and from all peace.
God is too holy to even look at iniquity. God the Father turned His back on the Son, cursing Him to the pit of hell while He hung on the cross. Here was the Son's "descent into hell." Here the fury of God raged against Him. His scream was the scream of the damned. For us.
Coram Deo: Living in the Presence of God
Reflect on what Jesus did for you on Calvary. Give thanks for the Lamb of God who bore your sin.
For Further Study
Matthew 27:46: "And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, 'Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?' that is, 'My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?'"
Galatians 3:13: "Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, 'Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree')."
Galatians 3:10: "For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse; for it is written, 'Cursed is everyone who does not continue in all things which are written in the book of the law, to do them.'"
© R.C. Sproul. All rights reserved.
Thursday, September 03, 2009
Criticism
by Charles R. Swindoll
Looking for a role model on how to handle criticism? It would be worth your while to check out the book of Nehemiah. On several occasions this great-hearted statesman was openly criticized, falsely accused, and grossly misunderstood. Each time he kept his cool . . . he rolled with the punch . . . he considered the source . . . he refused to get discouraged . . . he went to God in prayer . . . he kept building the wall (Nehemiah 2:19-20; 4:1-5).
One of the occupational hazards of being a leader is receiving criticism (not all of itconstructive, by the way). In the face of that kind of heat, there's a strong temptation to "go under," "throw in the towel," "bail out." Many have faded out of leadership because of intense criticism. I firmly believe that the leader who does anything that is different or worthwhile or visionary can count on criticism.
Along this line, I appreciate the remarks made by the fiery president of a past generation, Theodore Roosevelt:
It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbled or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena; whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, and comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; who does actually try to do the deed; who knows the great enthusiasm, the great devotion and spends himself in a worthy cause; who, at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly.
Far better is it to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs even though checkered by failure, than to rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy nor suffer much because they live in the gray twilight that knows neither victory nor defeat.
To those words I add a resounding amen.
A sense of humor is of paramount importance to the leader. Many of God's servants are simply too serious! There are at least two tests we face that determine the extent of our sense of humor:
Isn't this what Proverbs 27:5-6 is saying?
Better is open rebuke
Than love that is concealed.
Faithful are the wounds of a friend,
But deceitful are the kisses of an enemy.
And let me call to your attention the word friend in these verses. Friendship is not threatened but strengthened by honest criticism. But---when you are criticized by one who hardly knows you, filter out what is fact . . . and ignore the rest!
Nehemiah did that . . . and he got the wall built.
Excerpted from Come Before Winter and Share My Hope, Copyright © 1985, 1994 by Charles R. Swindoll, Inc. All rights reserved worldwide. Used by permission.
For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity,
Looking for a role model on how to handle criticism? It would be worth your while to check out the book of Nehemiah. On several occasions this great-hearted statesman was openly criticized, falsely accused, and grossly misunderstood. Each time he kept his cool . . . he rolled with the punch . . . he considered the source . . . he refused to get discouraged . . . he went to God in prayer . . . he kept building the wall (Nehemiah 2:19-20; 4:1-5).
One of the occupational hazards of being a leader is receiving criticism (not all of itconstructive, by the way). In the face of that kind of heat, there's a strong temptation to "go under," "throw in the towel," "bail out." Many have faded out of leadership because of intense criticism. I firmly believe that the leader who does anything that is different or worthwhile or visionary can count on criticism.
Along this line, I appreciate the remarks made by the fiery president of a past generation, Theodore Roosevelt:
It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbled or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena; whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, and comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; who does actually try to do the deed; who knows the great enthusiasm, the great devotion and spends himself in a worthy cause; who, at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly.
Far better is it to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs even though checkered by failure, than to rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy nor suffer much because they live in the gray twilight that knows neither victory nor defeat.
To those words I add a resounding amen.
A sense of humor is of paramount importance to the leader. Many of God's servants are simply too serious! There are at least two tests we face that determine the extent of our sense of humor:
- the ability to laugh at ourselves
- the ability to take criticism
Isn't this what Proverbs 27:5-6 is saying?
Better is open rebuke
Than love that is concealed.
Faithful are the wounds of a friend,
But deceitful are the kisses of an enemy.
And let me call to your attention the word friend in these verses. Friendship is not threatened but strengthened by honest criticism. But---when you are criticized by one who hardly knows you, filter out what is fact . . . and ignore the rest!
Nehemiah did that . . . and he got the wall built.
Excerpted from Come Before Winter and Share My Hope, Copyright © 1985, 1994 by Charles R. Swindoll, Inc. All rights reserved worldwide. Used by permission.
Wednesday, September 02, 2009
Think Before You Speak
This devotional was written by Leslie Snyder
Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent, and discerning if he holds his tongue.
One fateful afternoon, 55-year-old Marko retreated to his semi-detached workshop to make himself a tool for chimney cleaning. The chimney was too high for a simple broom to work, but if he could attach a brush to a chain and then weigh it down with something, that would do the trick. But what could he use as a weight?
He happened to have the perfect object. It was heavy, yet compact. And best of all, it was made of metal, so he could weld it to the chain. He must have somehow overlooked the fact that it was a hand grenade.
Marko turned on his welding apparatus and began to create an arc between the chain and the grenade. As the metal heated up, the grenade exploded. The force of the explosion killed poor Marko instantly. (2005 Darwin Award winner, from Darwinawards.com)
Every year the Darwin Awards remember those whose lives were cut short by actions that, let's say, lacked forethought and even common sense. For example, it shouldn't be surprising that heating a lava lamp on the stove or using an old grenade for chimney cleaning, or even teasing a wild animal are all bad ideas. But for a split second, some unfortunate people didn't stop to think about the consequences of their actions and the results were tragic.
Fortunately, for most of us, our foolish actions stop well before our lives are in danger. The book of Proverbs is full of teachings about a fool and his or her actions, with many of them dealing directly with the words we speak. I once heard the saying, "God gave us two ears and one mouth…. use them accordingly." If we would only follow that advice. How often I speak too soon only to give unwanted advice, hurt another's feelings, say something I regret, or speak in anger to the ones I love. In short, my actions are foolish. Colossians 4:6 instructs, "Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person." James 1:19 goes further, "Know this, my beloved brothers; let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger."
Words are powerful and carry the power to bless, encourage, teach and build up, but when misused they can harm, abuse, shame and destroy. Like the writer of Proverbs understood, may we also listen more than we speak. And in so doing, even our foolishness may seem wise.
GOING DEEPER:
1. Think of a time you experienced pain through the words of another.
2. Evaluate your own words. How are you either continuing or stopping the cycle of pain caused by words?
FURTHER READING: Luke 6:28; James 3:6-12; Ecclesiastes 5:1-7
Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent, and discerning if he holds his tongue.
—Proverbs 17:28
One fateful afternoon, 55-year-old Marko retreated to his semi-detached workshop to make himself a tool for chimney cleaning. The chimney was too high for a simple broom to work, but if he could attach a brush to a chain and then weigh it down with something, that would do the trick. But what could he use as a weight?
He happened to have the perfect object. It was heavy, yet compact. And best of all, it was made of metal, so he could weld it to the chain. He must have somehow overlooked the fact that it was a hand grenade.
Marko turned on his welding apparatus and began to create an arc between the chain and the grenade. As the metal heated up, the grenade exploded. The force of the explosion killed poor Marko instantly. (2005 Darwin Award winner, from Darwinawards.com)
Every year the Darwin Awards remember those whose lives were cut short by actions that, let's say, lacked forethought and even common sense. For example, it shouldn't be surprising that heating a lava lamp on the stove or using an old grenade for chimney cleaning, or even teasing a wild animal are all bad ideas. But for a split second, some unfortunate people didn't stop to think about the consequences of their actions and the results were tragic.
Fortunately, for most of us, our foolish actions stop well before our lives are in danger. The book of Proverbs is full of teachings about a fool and his or her actions, with many of them dealing directly with the words we speak. I once heard the saying, "God gave us two ears and one mouth…. use them accordingly." If we would only follow that advice. How often I speak too soon only to give unwanted advice, hurt another's feelings, say something I regret, or speak in anger to the ones I love. In short, my actions are foolish. Colossians 4:6 instructs, "Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person." James 1:19 goes further, "Know this, my beloved brothers; let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger."
Words are powerful and carry the power to bless, encourage, teach and build up, but when misused they can harm, abuse, shame and destroy. Like the writer of Proverbs understood, may we also listen more than we speak. And in so doing, even our foolishness may seem wise.
GOING DEEPER:
1. Think of a time you experienced pain through the words of another.
2. Evaluate your own words. How are you either continuing or stopping the cycle of pain caused by words?
FURTHER READING: Luke 6:28; James 3:6-12; Ecclesiastes 5:1-7
Tuesday, September 01, 2009
Reprogramming Our Thinking
But that isn’t what you learned about Christ. Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him, throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy.
We are the product of our thinking, so it is important that we choose carefully where to focus our mental energy. We can cling to our old flesh patterns and consequently find ourselves tripping over impulses and attitudes like bitterness, pride, and discontent. The wise alternative is to reprogram our thinking to match that of Jesus Christ.
Our current thought processes—such as the way we view ourselves and others, and how we approach problems—have been programmed by authority figures, church, friends, and even enemies. We can select some of our mind's influences (e.g., the media) but not all (e.g., our parents). Yet we can choose what input will shape our mind by believing and dwelling on that material.
Reprogramming the mind is a matter of choosing to believe and meditate upon God's truth. When you receive Jesus Christ as Savior, your mind is renewed with a capacity for godly thought. It might not seem different at first. But the longer you live the Christian life and apply biblical principles, the more you'll find old habits and modes of thinking will be choked out. However, anytime you yield to temptation, you allow old thought patterns an opportunity to rise up and dominate first your mind, and then your mouth and hands.
The way to strangle fleshly thoughts and attitudes is to pour Scripture into the mind regularly and frequently (Ps. 119:11). When we allow our thinking to be directed by the thoughts of God—which is what the Bible is made of—we will think, speak, and act according to His will.
For more biblical teaching and resources from Dr. Charles Stanley, please visit www.intouch.org
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