Author Archives: Daily Encouragement

March 15
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“Therefore we also have as our ambition, whether at home or absent, to be pleasing to Him.”  (2 Corinthians 5:9, NASB)

We frequently here the word “passion,” or its derivative, “passionate,” to describe the drive, energy, and the focus that someone brings to an activity.  It is meant to be a compliment, but when we are driven for the wrong reasons; or focused on the wrong things, it is anything but complimentary.

As disciples of Jesus, our passion is to be pleasing to God.  All other interests are subordinate; and all other invitations for our time, talent, and treasure are subject to — and informed by — this singular, supreme, objective.

To “have as our ambition. . .to be pleasing to Him,” is to succeed at all else, because all else is affected by this one thing!  – Luther

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March 14
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“Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.”  (Galatians 6:7, NKJV)

We need to beware of thinking — as most of the world does — that because we have “gotten by” that we have, “gotten away.”

We sin, but because we have not immediately suffered the consequences of our sin, we wrongly think that God’s law is on holiday.  This is akin to thinking that just because we have, somehow, avoided being pulled-over by the sheriff for exceeding the speed limit, that it is somehow okay to exceed the speed limit.

Don’t be fooled.  God’s law stands forever!

God’s commandments are for our protection, and for our provision.  Just because we are successful in flouting God’s law does not mean that we are wise.  We shall be called to give an accounting, whether in joy because we have obeyed; or in tears, because we have been found wanting.  – Luther

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March 13
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“People who accept discipline are on the pathway to life, but those who ignore correction will go astray.”  (Proverbs 10:17, NLT)

We, who have lived more than half of our allotted years, are at heightened risk of “going astray” in two basic ways: (1) Because we’ve “seen it all,” we are less open to a corrective word from someone else, especially if they are younger or less experienced than we; and (2) people who can help may be put-off when we don’t appear approachable or teachable.

Truth is truth, whether from the lips of an angel or from the mouth of a jackass (that is, the jackass of Numbers 22); and help is help, whether from a brother or from a stranger.

Work at being open to God’s discipline and His words of correction.  The Lord uses many personalities, agents, and circumstances to guide His people in the way that leads to life!  – Luther

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