Day: June 6, 2018

June 7, 2018

1 Peter 4:7-19 The Message (MSG)

It seems like everywhere I go there are always opportunities to wander from practicing the love of God.  The fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, kindness, thoughtfulness, faithfulness, and self-control—are being tugged on within me to be released so I may remain in the shalom (wholeness) of God.  Love and self-control are like bookends that bind all the fruit together.  I must reach for love and a greater portion of self-control with each trial or challenge.   When someone is impatient with me, the Spirit tugs on me to release patient love in return.  When someone is unkind to me, the Spirit tugs on me to release kind love in return.  Every day I must choose whether or not I will retaliate.  Can you relate?

In our lesson today, Peter speaks to my heart.  I am reminded God’s family will taste judgment in such a manner.  In order for a judgment to be made and test of character must be experienced.  So whatever you may experience each day, choose to remain in the love of God and be prepared to exercise that spiritual fruit for his glory.  God is watching; He knows what he is doing. It’s preparation.

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June 6, 2018

John 5:1-18 The Voice (VOICE)

During the time of Jesus’ ministry, Bethesda was known as a place full of suffering, impurity, and darkness.  Most people in the vicinity purposely avoided this place, but Jesus walks boldly into it in order to serve people.  Among those plagued with disease and physical challenges, Jesus singles out a lame man who for 38 years has waited patiently for God to heal him.  The man has been looking at his limitations and talking about needing people to help him, but the Lord is going to get him to look Higher for salvation in order to receive the wholeness found in the presence of God.

We are all tempted to focus on our limitations, but we must resist doing so because God is not limited by our weaknesses.  For 38 years the “mat” has been this man’s resting place, but Jesus tells him to pick it up and carry it in new strength.  Pick up your mat—that thing you have been resting on for comfort—ask and expect the Spirit to move you into wholeness leaving weakness behind.  Be bold with your asking and avoid trying to figure out how God will touch you.  Trust, because Jesus is the Healer and we all need him!

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