Tag: ChristianLiving

April 1, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

Recognizing Patterns of Reactivity

Opening Verse

“He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls.”
— Proverbs 25:28 (KJV)

Introduction

Sometimes we react before we think. We say things we don’t mean. We snap, get offended, or pull back in silence. These patterns don’t just happen once—they become habits if we’re not careful. But Scripture calls us to something better: self-awareness that leads to Spirit-control.

Devotional Story

A man was driving home after a long day at work. Traffic was heavy, and someone cut him off. Instantly, he laid on the horn and shouted in frustration. His children, quiet in the backseat, looked on. He didn’t realize how often this happened—until one evening, his young daughter mimicked his reaction during a game.

That was the wake-up call.

He didn’t need a sermon. He saw it—clear as day—how his pattern of reactivity was not just hurting his witness, but shaping his children. He went to his room, dropped to his knees, and repented. He asked the Lord, not just for forgiveness, but for a new spirit. A spirit that reflects Christ, not the flesh.

What This Means

If we don’t slow down and reflect, we’ll keep living in cycles of reaction. God wants us to respond in wisdom, not react in emotion. Self-awareness is not self-help—it’s a grace of God that helps us examine ourselves in the light of the Holy Spirit.

When we stay in God’s Word and prayer, He shows us the truth about ourselves—not to shame us, but to change us.

Think About This

  • Do you notice when you’re quick to anger, fear, or control?

  • Are your reactions bearing the fruit of the Spirit—or the works of the flesh?

  • Have you ever paused to ask God, “Why am I like this?” He will show you—if you ask Him with a humble heart.

Prayer

Lord, I need You to rule over my spirit. I confess that I’ve allowed old patterns to lead me instead of Your Spirit. Help me see myself clearly and surrender my reactions to You. Teach me how to pause, reflect, and walk in the peace of Christ. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.”
— Psalm 51:10 (KJV)

December 8, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Help Those God Puts in Your Path

Opening Verse

“As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.” – Galatians 6:10 (KJV)

Introduction

Life is full of divine appointments. God orchestrates moments when we cross paths with others in need. These aren’t coincidences but opportunities to demonstrate His love. When we feel the nudge to help, it’s vital to act.

Devotional Story

A young man named Mark worked late nights at a convenience store. One evening, a frail elderly woman walked in, carrying only a small bag of coins. She asked softly if she had enough to buy a loaf of bread. The total exceeded her coins by just a few cents.

Without hesitation, Mark took the remaining change from his own pocket and completed her purchase. The woman’s eyes filled with tears of gratitude. As she left, she whispered, “God bless you, young man.”

Later that night, Mark couldn’t shake the feeling that their encounter was orchestrated by God. He remembered Proverbs 3:27:

“Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it.”

Mark realized that the small act of kindness was a way of reflecting God’s love to someone in need.

What This Means

God often places people in our paths for a purpose. It might be a stranger needing encouragement or a friend going through a tough time. When we respond with kindness and generosity, we not only meet a practical need but also glorify God. Every act of love is a seed planted for His kingdom.

Think About This

  • How often do you notice the needs of others around you?
  • What stops you from helping when you feel prompted by the Holy Spirit?
  • Can you recall a time when someone’s kindness made a difference in your life?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for placing opportunities in my path to show Your love. Help me to recognize and respond to these moments with grace and compassion. May my actions glorify You and bring others closer to Your heart. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in.” – Matthew 25:35 (KJV)