How easy it is for us to jump on the bandwagon and join in when we hear people criticizing someone we don’t particularly like, or gossiping about someone’s bad behavior.

Paul writes to the Ephesians in chapter 4:29 “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” NIV

It is important not only that we don’t join in, but we should try to take the opportunity to diffuse the gossip and criticism; not only for the benefit of the person subject to the gossip and criticism, but also for the benefit of those criticizing and gossiping. We may never know if our actions may positively affect the character of those listening.

Dear Lord, help us resist the temptation to criticize and gossip. Give us the wisdom to build up everyone rather than tearing them down. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Many of us have memorized the 23rd Psalm, “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want…..” and we probably know it in the language of the King James (KJV), or Revised Standard (RSV) versions of the Bible.

In the RSV, verse 3 says, “He leads me in paths of righteousness, for his name’s sake.” Which is not completely clear in our modern language, however, reading this verse in the New Living Translation (NLT) says, “He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name.” This helps me understand a little more clearly.

If we follow Jesus, our shepherd, he will show us the right paths. We do not need to stress and worry about what to do. We trust Him and move forward, and He will lead us.

Dear Lord, many of us have concerns about decisions and questions in life. Help us remember that if we look to you for guidance, you will put us on the right path, and bring honor to You. In Jesus’ name we pray.

Most of us know the story of the farmer spreading seed in Matthew 13, where some of the seed fell on the path, some on shallow soil, some among the thorns, and some on fertile ground.

In Matthew 13:22 Jesus explains the meaning of the seed that fell among the thorns, saying, “The seed that fell among the thorns represents those who hear God’s word, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the worries of this life and the lure of wealth, so no fruit is produced.”

I think this situation affects many of us in the developed world. We may have been brought up Christian, possibly attending church regularly, but today, there are too many “important” things going on for us to “produce fruit.”

The amazing prosperity in our world has built powerful temptations that make it difficult to prioritize the time to study the word, attend Bible studies and church services. When we are not involved, we are unlikely to witness, invite others to worship, and most sadly, as parents we may be the ones who break the chain of connection to the peace, joy, hope, and Salvation of Christianity for our families.

There is hope! Every day is a new day. Take one step, say a prayer, read the Bible (Start with the New Testament), listen to a good bible teacher on TV, Radio or internet, find a Church home, and re-plant yourself in fertile soil so you can produce fruit.

Dear Lord, You know the challenges and temptations we face trying to prioritize you in our lives. Give us the strength to overcome these temptations so that we can re plant ourselves into the fertile soil and produce fruit. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

One of the questions that effects many Christians is “What is God calling me to do?”

Although the answer may come easy to some, it isn’t clear to all of us. I think sometimes we are looking for some type of significant supernatural revelation telling us what God wants us to do, but for most people the answer comes as a simple thought that may re-occur. “I should teach Sunday school,” or “I need to bring my family to church,” or “I should pray for that person.” These may not just be random thoughts, but are the quiet voice of God encouraging you to your calling.

Even if the call is not something dramatic like, “drop everything and go to Africa,” it still can be frightening to follow through. Keep this in mind. “The will of God will never lead you where the love of God will not support you.” God will take care of you if you step out in faith.

Paul writes in 2 Thessalonians 1:11-12 “So we keep on praying for you, asking our God to enable you to live a life worthy of his call. May he give you the power to accomplish all the good things your faith prompts you to do. Then the name of our Lord Jesus will be honored because of the way you live, and you will be honored along with him. This is all made possible because of the grace of our God and Lord, Jesus Christ.”

Dear Lord, thank you for the prompts to act on your calling. Help us listen, hear, and act in faith knowing that you will be there supporting us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.’

Most of us have heard or read 1 Peter 5:7, “Cast your cares on Him for He cares for you.” This verse sometimes seems a little over simplified, like telling someone..”don’t worry about it, everything will work out.”

However, I recently read Romans 10:11, which the Living Bible translates, “For the Scriptures tell us that no one who believes in Christ will ever be disappointed.”

I have experienced this, and maybe you have too. A situation appears to have no possible positive outcome, late for a meeting, behind in class, missed a flight, bills that you cannot cover, but when we fully give the concern over to God, unexpected events occur and things work out in ways we never imagined.

God will not disappoint us, if we trust Him.

Dear Lord, we often wait until, we think, we have no alternative before coming to you with our concerns. Help us remember to come to you first, and when we trust you, you will not let us down. What peace this knowledge provides. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.