Today’s scripture: John 12:44-50 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (David Zier):
How many times have I chosen to do something because it provided glory to me, before thinking about what I should do in a situation to glorify Christ?
How about that time I felt tension in a situation and I decided to go the way of spite, tit-for-tat for everything that was said so I will feel more “right” and walk away feeling vindicated. Or the time I participated in the gossip instead of speaking up for truth and walking away, only because it was so juicy and salacious it made my life look so good. How about when I saw someone who needed help and I turned a blind eye to the situation, keeping on my selfish way.
When I say I believe in Jesus or that I am a follower of Christ, yet I do these things, am I really denying God by showing I love my own glory more than I do God’s glory? It seems as if I am blinded and hardened when I act in these ways. It’s as if Isaiah’s prophecy quoted in today’s scripture is happening in me!
Instead of lamenting on the failure (because God knows I beat myself up many a time) why not intentionally take steps that help me throughout the day? Jesus performed many signs and people did not believe in his day, but God today performs so many signs around us, how can we not see and believe!
When was the last time I asked myself when I was in a tense situation, “What would it mean to respond in love?” Or, “What would peace look like in this situation?” Or, “What would be the just thing for me to do?” When I think of God’s glory first, I can seek forgiveness, and chose to live in that forgiveness by responding in love. But even when I forget, remember God is always there, the Holy Spirit is in me, so ask for and seek guidance! I can choose to see the signs of God around me.
I Saw God Today by George Strait
Saw a flower growin’ in the middle of the sidewalk
Pushin’ up through the concrete
Like it was planted right there for me to see
I saw God todayI’ve been to church
I’ve read the book
I know God’s here
But I don’t look
Near as often as I should
God’s fingerprints are everywhere
I just slowed down to stop and stare
Opened my eyes and I swear
I saw God today
Thought for the day: What am I doing in each moment and each situation to live in God’s glory?
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.