Tag Archives: obedience

June 4
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Uncategorized Aside

“And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever — the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. (John 14:16-17, NIV)

Another thought on this passage of scripture, also cited on the previous day: “The world cannot accept him because it neither sees him nor knows him.”

We sometimes think it strange when our view of a particular matter seems so at odds with the point of view of those who do not know Jesus. Try the view of forgiveness: The Christian disciple is always ready to forgive and reconcile; the world-wise person sets a line past which forgiveness and reconciliation is impossible.

Do not think it strange that the world neither sees the value of forgiveness, nor understands why anyone else would: The world neither sees Him, nor knows Him.  But you, faithful disciple of Jesus, do see Him; you do know Him; and while the world may not see Jesus, the world does see you.

Let your light shine! – Luther

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May 20
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“There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the Lord.” (Proverbs 21:30, NIV)

A reality check: God is all-powerful.

By our own estimation, we do so many things well; and we begin to think that that is the end of it.  However, when we take God into account, things change. 

Proverbs reminds us that our wisdom is no match for God; our insight is not match for God; and all of our plans are no match for God. 

We do best to follow His wisdom, knowledge, and planning, lest we come to the end of our course and find embarrassment — rather than accolades — as our reward.  

Commit your days and your ways to the Lord, and He will guard your path.  – Luther 

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May 9
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Uncategorized Aside

“Be generous, and you will be prosperous. Help others, and you will be helped.” (Proverbs 11:25, Good News Translation)

If the word of God is true, then we need not fear the personal expense being generous. If the word of God is true, then we need not avoid the inconvenience of helping others. 

To give liberally of our time, talent, and treasure is a litmus test of our faith in God.  To be eager to help others — particularly those who cannot return the favor — is a counterintuitive investment in our future. 

Be generous and helpful out of obedience.  This is what God expects of his children. Be generous and helpful out of love for our heavenly Father, because doing so makes us partners with Him in His work in this world; and because doing so allows us to achieve His point of view through imitation.

We will be surprised, amazed, and humbled by the faithfulness of God when we exercise our faith in Him in these simple ways.  – Luther

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