Growing up we all probably had an experience where we did something wrong and were punished by a parent or other adult. Do you remember saying, or hearing someone say, “I’ll never do that again.” after being punished or scolded?

Psalm 119:67 says, “I used to wander off until you disciplined me; but now I closely follow your word.” The NIV translation writes this verse like this, “Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I obey your word.”

It is pretty clear from this passage that sometimes things happen to us as a form of discipline, to get us back on the right track. I don’t think that every “affliction” is some kind of discipline from God, but when things are not going well, we should think about why that might be, and turn to God for help, and guidance. Whether we are bringing discipline on ourselves, or our trials are just part of life, turning to God is always the right response.

Psalm 139:24 says, “Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.”

Dear Lord, much of life remains a mystery to us, but we know You are working Your plan for each of us. Help us turn to You when we are afflicted, and find Your will for us. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

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Many of us have competitive hobbies like, sports, cards, board games, and others where we compete with our friends to maintain, and improve our skills.

Competitive and non-competitive based hobbies have traditions for sharing experiences and stories. For instance, Pilots have a tradition they call “Hangar flying,” which is usually a small group congregating somewhere around the airport talking about flying. Though it is motivated by the enjoyment of sharing stories and experiences of an activity they all enjoy, it also allows them to learn from each other, and become better pilots.

These activities are ways people improve, refine, maintain and appreciate these hobbies, and activities.

In a similar way, studying the bible, sharing and discussing our faith and experiences with other Christians strengthens and expands our faith and walk with God.

Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.” We should take the opportunities that arise to sharpen each other in our Christian walk.

Dear Lord, help us find friends and opportunities in which to share our Christianity, so that we all may grow and be sharper tools for your work. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

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Henry Ford is quoted as saying, “If you think you can do a thing, or think you can’t do a thing, you’re right.”

I have heard the same concept said this way, “If you believe something is not possible, it is not possible, for you.”

What these quotes are emphasizing is the importance of belief.

Jesus tells us in Matthew 19:26, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible,” and when Jesus healed the blind man in Matthew 9:19, Jesus said, “According to your faith let it be done to you.”

God creating everything, how can we question His ability to do anything.

Dear Lord, There is no limit to what You can do in our lives, but possibly our doubt and disbelief. Strengthen our belief in Your power to act in our lives and in our world. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

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Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 NLT

How often we get frustrated and beaten down by the challenges of life; whether we are trying to get ahead by working and going to school, a stay at home parent trying to keep children on track, house organized, spouse happy, and personal sanity, a single parent trying to provide for and raise children at the same time, one challenged by trama, addictions, or personal tragedies, an executive or professional with a hectic schedule competing with family priorities.

I think what Jesus was telling the crowd, and is trying to tell us, is to look to Him and place our confidence and faith in Him; He will help us have peace amidst life’s challenges.

Dear Lord, help us remember that You love us, like a caring parent with outstretched arms waiting for us to come and find comfort and security. In Your name we pray. Amen.

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If we think about it, we have all been part of achieving something that required a team, working together to accomplish something we could not have done on our own. It may have been a sports team, a community or church project, or even a business startup. All significant successes are the result of a team of people’s efforts.

Doing God’s work is the same, but with an important addition. Paul talks about this in 1 Corinthians 3:6,7, “I planted the seed in your hearts, and Apollos watered it, but it was God who made it grow. It’s not important who does the planting, or who does the watering. What’s important is that God makes the seed grow.”

In doing God’s work, we each have our part to play. When we work together and have faith, God will “make the seed grow.”

Dear Lord, You are the power behind all our success, help us remember to work together to spread your word and love, with faith that you will make the seed grow. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

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