The Well
The Well |
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Connecting Hope to the Hurting | |
Sunday
January 6, 2008
Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked,
or stand
around with sinners, or join in with scoffers.
But they delight in doing
everything the LORD wants;
day and night they think
about his law.
They are like trees planted along the riverbank,
bearing
fruit each season without fail.
Their leaves never wither,
and in all
they do, they prosper.
But this is not true of the wicked.
They are like
worthless chaff, scattered by the wind.
They will be condemned at the time
of judgment.
Sinners will have no place among the godly.
For the LORD watches over the path of the godly,
but the path of the
wicked leads to destruction.
Psalm 1
One common theme throughout God's Word is that genuine joy comes only from a close relationship with Him. The very first Psalm makes that statement boldly.
Like most people, throughout my younger years, and even into a few years as a child of God, I sought happiness in some truly strange ways. It didn't work. I only became more miserable – nothing satisfied. Then, as I began to seek God with all my heart I began to have a quiet peace, which I soon discovered is joy.
Also, like many people, my birth family didn't believe as I did and that created a major conflict. I loved these people, but hanging out with them was uncomfortable. We didn't think the same way and our priorities were totally different. Don't get me wrong, but as each family member passed away I found a new sense of freedom ¾ freedom to be the person God created me to be instead of the person my family expected me to be.
Recently, God placed someone in my life that was very much like my mom. This person was in a position of authority in my life and daily I found myself feeling much like I did as a child ¾ stupid and unable to perform simple tasks. This bothered me emotionally, but it didn't affect me spiritually. I know I am a child of God and that I can do all things through Him. Well, God took care of this problem too and very soon this person will no longer be in a position of authority over me.
Instead of responding to this person as I did to my mom, with rebellion, I submitted and showed respect, but not to the point of abuse. God intervened because I trusted in Him and loved this person with His love ¾ even when I didn't feel like it.
As Believers we must respond to the world differently than others. I know ¾ it's hard! However, God will grow us like mighty oaks and prosper us in His time if we treat those in authority as God would have us to.
As you go about your routine today, from going to church to being with family, try to make it a point to show respect even to those you aren't too crazy about and see what God will do!
Lord, we want to honor You. We want all of our advice to come from people who honor You. Help us to learn that You are the One that places people in positions of authority. Help us show respect to all people, but only take advice from those who know and love You!
