Monday February 21, 2011
Theme: Loving Like Jesus Loves Me
Weekend Music links on iTunes: God Is With Us - Michael Olson, Today Is the Day - Lincoln Brewster, None But Jesus - Hillsong, Attention - Know Hope Collective
Read: James 4:11, 1 Peter 2:1, 9-10
Think: Over the years living in a few homes, there has often been a neighboring household of people that my spouse and I have amusingly, yet snarlingly referred to as “the renters.” Although we haven’t been homeowners that long, each place we’ve lived seems to have renters who have left an impression of carelessness, neglect or trouble. Currently, the renters nearby have had a few visits from the police, yelling heard from down the block and even an altercation with another neighbor.
Recently, I saw something in front of their house and my mind filled with judgment and unkind thoughts. You’ll never guess Who tapped me on the shoulder and said “I love them.” I was stopped dead in my tracks as God reminded haughty me that He loves the renters. My heart softened as He gently convicted me. My spirit knew God wanted me to quit judging them and start praying for them. He even suggested I try to befriend them!
Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. Luke 12:67
“You must make allowance for each other’s faults and forgive the person who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.” Col. 3:13 (NLT)
Do: Listen to your negative thoughts or words about others. Are they reflecting the unconditional love of Jesus? Yield to the Holy Spirit Who convicts and teaches. Quit being stubborn and ask Jesus who lives in you to love others through you; to be your strength when you can’t do it on your own.
Pray: Thank you, God, for loving me just as I am, in all of my ugliness. Thank you for not letting me stay this way! Help me love others the way you do.
The eDevotional is written each week by a team of volunteers from Timberlake Church.