Today’s scripture: Proverbs 23:19-27 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Steve Adams):
Hear my child, and be wise, and direct your mind in the way.
So, we’re urged to direct our minds in the wise path. This makes me think of the director of a movie. As far as I understand it, the director has ultimate authority on every detail of the movie — where each actor is positioned, what clothes they wear, exactly what kind of angles the camera shoots (even what lenses are used), what scenes are cut, even (for interior shots) what, if any pictures are on the wall and how they’re arranged. So, I ask myself, am I an effective director of my mind?
The way it works, I think, is that we direct our minds toward that which we believe is important. If I love someone, then I will undoubtedly live out that old Cole Porter song title, I Concentrate on You. And when we love God, we begin to gravitate toward God’s way — the rich path of love, joy, peace patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Then we become steadfastly dedicated to that path!
We realize each day is a gift from God. Through the good times and disappointments, the faith and the fear, the sweet and the bitter, we have a joy that endures and transcends. The fall and winter of 2011-12 was a time of winter in my life. I was tired, sick, lost my job, had surgery, and lost a loved one. However, “in the depth of winter, I finally learned there was in me an invincible summer.” (Albert Camus). The invincible summer was the love and faith from God, my family, and my friends (including many from LifeJourney Church). The fruit of the spirit filled all of us and I learned to love and appreciate that love more than I ever had before! Then, during recovery, God showed me how to take the next growth-step on the path of life.
Prayer for the day: God, I ask you to direct my life so I can walk in the path You intend. I love you, O Lord my strength! (Psalm 18:1)
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.