Daily Dose 12-12-19

Proverbs 29:20 (MSG) Observe the people who always talk before they think—even simpletons are better off than they are.

Oh the wisdom of Proverbs! It is so easy for us to spot those who speak before they think. They can often bring pain or stir turmoil with their thoughtless words. The Message paraphrase of this scripture asks us to observe these people. More often than not, the word observe is used in the pursuit of training. An apprentice will observe the master’s techniques before trying for himself. Solomon cautions us to do the opposite in this case. Observe those who speak before thinking to learn what NOT to do. The old adage, “God gave us two ears and one mouth for a reason” is founded in Biblical wisdom. Not every thought you have is intended to be spoken – or tweeted, blogged or posted for that matter! Our words are powerful and should be harnessed by the Hoy Spirit. Spend time in prayer – before you even get out of bed – and ask the Spirit to harness your words, not only to halt anything that would be hurtful or divisive, but also to drive you to speak words of encouragement to lift others up from despair!

Father, I pray Your Words to guard mine: Let the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, Oh LORD my strength and redeemer. I love You! Amen!

Daily Dose 12-11-19

Revelation 3:1b-3 (MSG)  "I see right through your work. You have a reputation for vigor and zest, but you're dead, stone-dead. Up on your feet! Take a deep breath! Maybe there's life in you yet. But I wouldn't know it by looking at your busywork; nothing of God's work has been completed. Your condition is desperate. Think of the gift you once had in your hands, the Message you heard with your ears—grasp it again and turn back to God.

There are times when our walk of faith looks strong on the outside. We are busy doing good deeds, serving in ministries and working hard for the cause of Christ. Sometimes, we get so caught up in the busyness of doing Christianity, we forget about the being of Christianity. It’s similar to the commercialization of Christmas. What started as a Holy time to reverently reflect on Christ leaving the splendor of heaven to be born in the humble setting of a manger has turned into a hustle-bustle, stress-induced frenzy. Don’t let the world’s view of corporate church get in the way of the church inside you. Serve in programs and ministries, but remember who you are serving and why. Just like there is a call to put Christ back in Christmas, we should live everyday focused on the Christ of our title as Christian.

Father, I take a deep breath to pause and ask You to breathe Your will into my Spirit. Renew my faith and focus my work for Your glory! I love You! Amen