| Subject: Devo #43: Easy Does It |
Author:
Gail
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Date Posted: 18:11:29 09/17/01 Mon
Topic—Light of the World
Power Point—Those who are lost in darkness need our compassion and guidance.
This Week’s Memory Verses—Ephesians 5:8–10
Access Database—2 Corinthians 4:1–6
Easy Does It
by Dan Williams
This year my 2-year-old daughter is learning the ropes of proper living. She’s learning to say "excuse me" to interrupt adults and politely say "please" (rather than whining) when she wants something. She has mastered most of the basics. Although, there is one lesson that has been a little more elusive…potty training. She is genuinely working hard at ditching the Pampers and using the "Big Girl Potty." However, our plan has developed, shall we say, a few leaks? One specific "leak" happened after my lovely (and normally prevention-oriented) wife put our sleeping beauty down for nap—without a diaper on. It was only a short time later that our little one came staggering down the hall whining and groaning with deep anguish in her eyes. Mr. Mom (that’s me) leaped to rescue my aching girl, but couldn’t get her to look me in the eye. After a brief hug, it was quite clear that she had had an accident. She anointed the sheets, mattress, blankets and everything else. The worst of it seemed to be her obvious embarrassment. My heart melted when I realized she was embarrassed and agonizing over her own inability to control her bladder! She was reluctant to tell me what happened until I whispered in her ear, "Is it OK if Daddy helps?" Condemnation would have broken her spirit.
Don’t you think a little empathy would also help our unbelieving friends? I mean if we really were compassionate, we’d blame the enemy for spiritual blindness, not condemn our friends. God provides the light that shines in our hearts, and the enemy blinds the eyes of the unbelievers who are in the dark. They don’t really know any better than to swear, gossip, lie, ridicule, mock and reject you. If your understanding of God shines through but is rejected by a friend, remember what they’re up against. Think about the hurt and blindness in their life, not the sting of rejection they’ve caused you. Never stop loving them because they reject Jesus. Your heart shines because God has transformed you. Let that knowledge shine in the darkness. And never forget to pray for the blindness to be broken…maybe even through your delicate compassion and understanding.
Now go back and read 2 Corinthians 4:1–6 one more time.
Identity Matrix—Disciples of Christ...
Know God—In what way did God reveal Himself to you as you read His Word?
Live for God—What one lifestyle change is God calling you to make?
Love Others—In what way is God calling you to minister to someone in need?
Bear Fruit—In what ways will you set the example and the standard for others to follow?
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