Your Daily Crossroad
In Times of Controversy
But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love. (Ephesians 4:15-16)
Even amidst our Christian lives, arguments, disagreements, and tension-filled conflict will come; but when it does, here are five Biblical principles to consider before we ever open our lips:
Listen. Be silent in your mind as well as in your mouth. “He that hath knowledge spareth his words: and a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit. Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding” (Proverbs 17:27-28).
Be teachable. Are you in the wrong? If so, how can you respond in humility, grace, and repentance? If you genuinely desire to grow in Christ-likeness, then remember that God uses iron to sharpen iron, and frequently, there will be sparks (Proverbs 27:17).
Think. Take every thought captive to obey Christ (2 Corinthians 10:3-5). We are in a spiritual struggle against an enemy who seeks to divide us. Don’t let your thoughts grow vengeful, spiteful, or believe lies about others. Be disciplined in your thought life.
Seek unity. We are one body with many parts. If this is true (which today’s text says it is), that means each believer’s mission is the same. Think about it, is the eye’s mission different than the heart’s? In its function—what it does—yes. In its mission—why it does it—no. Remember, we are one, a unified whole. Seek unity between yourself and your brothers and sisters because we’re playing for the same team.
Model love over winning an argument. Always speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15), because love seeks unity over division and peace over strife (See especially 1 Corinthians 13:1-7). Sometimes though, people are simply wrong, misled, or in sin. When this is the case, don’t shrink from the truth, but don’t use it as a weapon to wound either. Love reconciles; pride dominates.
Our lives will not be free of controversy until Jesus returns. Until then, let’s remember his words, “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another” (John 13:35). Amen.
When I read this I felt it was important to share. What wise council when we find ourselves in a controversial situation. Listen, Be Teachable, Think, Seek Unity and Model Love over winning an argument. Wow!! Look to The Word for guidance and direction. It has all you will ever need for clear direction in any situation. May we Show The Love of Christ today, even to those who don’t show it back in return. Let us be different so we can make a difference today. You never know who’s life you will impact for the Kingdom by showing love amidst controversy.
Have a wonderful day in The Lord!
Today’s Reading is Ephesians 4:15-16 – 5
He is Faithful
The psalmists often talked to themselves in the Psalms. The author of Psalm 116 is no exception. In verse 7 he writes, “Return unto thy rest, O my soul; for the Lord hath dealt bountifully with thee.” Reminding himself of God’s kindness and faithfulness in the past is a practical comfort and help to him in the present. We see “conversations” like this frequently in the Psalms. In Psalm 103:1 David tells himself, “Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.” And in Psalm 62:5 he affirms, “My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from him.”
When I recently read this it reminded me of Gods faithfulness and how we must never forget what God has done for us in the past to uplift and encourage us in the present. Life can cause us to forget what God has done in the past and we allow ourselves to get discouraged but we must remember faithful He has been faithful He will be. God is always faithful, always powerful and always in charge.
Have a wonderful day in The Lord!
Today’s Reading is Psalm 116:5-9
Time For Him
Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. (1 Peter 5:7)
I know Someone who thinks you are important. You are the apple of His eye. His mind is always on you. He is continually aware of your wants, needs and desires. He watches over you when you are hurting, suffering and in trouble. He plans for your success. His thoughts towards you are immeasurable and unfathomable.
So with that in mind, how IMPORTANT is He to you? Are you planning your day around Him or trying to plan Him into your day? Are you hanging out with another during the time you set aside for Him?
It hurts Jesus when He is cast aside. He longs to commune with you. He longs to just sit and chat, invite Him into your day. He is waiting to spend some time with just you.
To hear the whisper of God you must turn down the volume of the world. Find time to disconnect from everything around you and be still in His presence today. He is waiting for you to draw near. Amen.
Have a wonderful day in The Lord!
Today’s Reading is 1 Peter 5:7-11
Fountain of Life and Light
How excellent is thy lovingkindness, O God! therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of thy wings. They shall be abundantly satisfied with the fatness of thy house; and thou shalt make them drink of the river of thy pleasures. For with thee is the fountain of life: in thy light shall we see light. (Psalm 36:7-9)
Such a luxurious description of Heaven is laid out for us in Psalm 36. Safety for those who have been hunted, provided under the steadfast powerful wings of the Almighty. An unending feasting at the table of the Lord for those who have known famine. Eternally satisfying drink for those spirits who have thirsted for their Savior. A fountain of life and the light of the Son purifying and illuminating all.
I can’t tell you how appealing this sounds to me. I am very weary this week. A fountain of life to dance in? Yes please. Light that doesn’t make my tired eyes squint and wish for a dim bedroom, but instead opens my eyes with new life to the beauty around me? Sure thing. A feast I don’t have to cook and an endless cheese board that I can eat without fear of calories? That’s definitely heavenly. And eternal safety in the sure protection of my Lord? Knowing I never again will worry or fear? This more than anything makes me want to shout “Come, Jesus. Come.”
Today’s Reading is Psalm 36