Monday Reading: Proverbs 27 11
Key Verse: Proverbs 27 11
11 My son, be wise, and make my heart glad, so that I may answer him who shames me.
Devotion:
We all like to think that we are in control of things and that we can predict what will happen in most circumstances. We like to think that we do control things in our lives to the extent whereby we can act like Christians and show a good example to all those around us. What we don't like to think about is when we loose control of things and act in ways that are not really becoming of a Christian. When we loose control and shout at someone, tell people off for doing what we do or plain lie to get ourselves out of a spot of trouble... those are the the times when people are going to notice us most!
Key Verse: Proverbs 27 11
11 My son, be wise, and make my heart glad, so that I may answer him who shames me.
Devotion:
We all like to think that we are in control of things and that we can predict what will happen in most circumstances. We like to think that we do control things in our lives to the extent whereby we can act like Christians and show a good example to all those around us. What we don't like to think about is when we loose control of things and act in ways that are not really becoming of a Christian. When we loose control and shout at someone, tell people off for doing what we do or plain lie to get ourselves out of a spot of trouble... those are the the times when people are going to notice us most!
What we really need is not the sharp reactions and sharp tongue, but a wise mind and loving heart. Christ has given us the ability to show our wisdom and He is there to guide us and encourage us when we feel like we have lost our wisdom. But in order to get that help and assistance, we have to be quiet and listen to Him. It's not all about being totally submissive and doing what Christ wants just because He says so – it's about doing it with a willing heart. You can normally tell when someone is doing something just because they have to instead of doing something because they want to. Don't be fooled into believing that acting like a Christian is any different. Acting like one is not going to pull any punches – we have to be willing to be one!
God can use anyone, but to make sure that He gets the greatest glory out of our lives, we should be willing to be used in any way that He would want to use us. We should be willing to listen to Him and to act accordingly with a loving heart and willing spirit. He is the one that is supplying our needs and wants to make us happy. He is the one that is giving us the opportunity to live a better life for Him. He is the one that has made it all possible in the first place. What we need to do is to show Him that we are willing to answer Him. Only then will He be able to use us as the best examples for others to be convinced that He is real and that He is God.
Points to Ponder:
Can you tell when people do things begrudgingly?
Make God proud and be glad to worship Him in all circumstances!
Can you tell when people do things begrudgingly?
Make God proud and be glad to worship Him in all circumstances!