Tag: life lessons

October 17, 2023 Devotional Post a Comment

The Door to God’s Love

“Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.”
– Revelation 3:20 (KJV)

Introduction

Imagine God’s love as a house with an always-open door, inviting everyone in. Sometimes it’s hard to take that step inside, especially if we’re not sure what we’ll find. But when we see people we know living happily in that “house,” it makes us want to join them. The story of Maria and Rosa is a perfect example. It shows us how embracing God’s love can change our lives for the better and how we can be the catalyst for others to do the same.

Devotional Story

Maria and Rosa have been friends for years. They hang out, share laughs, and support each other. Despite their closeness, they lead different lives. Maria is often seen hopping from one party to another, looking for excitement and fun. She thinks that’s where happiness lies.

Rosa, on the other hand, leads a quieter life. She’s always seemed calm, centered, and genuinely happy. And this happiness isn’t tied to her circumstances; she’s like this all the time. Rosa attributes her contentment to her faith in God.

Maria becomes more and more curious about Rosa’s serenity. Why is Rosa so peaceful even when life throws curveballs? Finally, one evening, they sit down for some real talk. Rosa opens up about how her relationship with God has filled her life with a peace that surpasses all understanding.

“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” – John 14:27 (KJV)

Something clicks for Maria. She feels an internal warmth that she can’t ignore. Inspired by Rosa, Maria decides to explore this avenue. Rosa guides her as she begins praying, attending church, and diving into the Bible for the first time.

Over time, Maria starts experiencing a newfound peace. She feels a deep sense of joy that’s far more satisfying than the temporary thrills she’d been chasing.

“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28 (KJV)

Conclusion

The story of Maria and Rosa is not just a tale of personal transformation but also a lesson for all of us. God’s love is a choice available to anyone who seeks it. We don’t just have to talk about God’s love; we should strive to live it every day.

When people around us see the happiness and peace radiating from our lives, they might become intrigued, just like Maria did. That’s our chance to share the joy that comes from God’s love, guiding them toward a fulfilling life too.

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16 (KJV)

 Faith Notes

Being an example of God’s love is like being a lighthouse. We help others find their way through the darkness, leading them toward the open door of God’s love. It doesn’t take a grand gesture to make a difference—sometimes, even a small act of kindness can be the spark that ignites someone else’s faith journey.

So remember, even a little light can shine brightly in a dark world. By simply being who we are, living a life filled with love and care, we can guide others into the comforting, loving arms of God. It’s a responsibility, but also a privilege, to share this gift of divine love and joy.

 

October 15, 2023 Devotional Post a Comment

The Art of Being Humble and Recognizing Talent

“Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”
– Psalms 139:23-24 (KJV)

Introduction

We all know the warm sense of happiness that arises when our loved ones achieve something great. This joy is especially pronounced when it comes to our children. Yet what transpires when we are met with the reality that their talents might not just equal but even outstrip our own? Here we have a tale involving a parent who experiences complex emotions upon discovering the awe-inspiring talents of a young animator—a mirror to what their child could become.

Devotional Story

One fine day, a parent stumbles upon an animation that leaves them speechless. Crafted by a young animator, the piece showcases skills and imagination far exceeding anything the parent had ever created. Rather than feeling an overwhelming sense of pride or happiness for the prodigious animator, they find themselves drowning in jealousy, a sentiment they rarely entertain.

This eye-opening moment acts like a magnifying glass, revealing aspects of themselves they’d rather not see. It opens the floodgates to fears and insecurities about their own achievements, and even more painfully, about the accomplishments of their loved ones.

“Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”
– Psalms 139:23-24 (KJV)

After a period of intense reflection and soul-searching, the parent recognizes the fallacy behind their emotional reaction. They come to understand that their jealousy has less to do with the young animator’s brilliance and more with their own lurking insecurities. This epiphany becomes a stepping stone toward greater maturity; they decide to be more supportive and to celebrate not just others’ talents, but also to acknowledge and foster their own untapped potentials.

Conclusion

Jealousy and insecurity are far from admirable, yet they serve as crucial indicators that signal the need for introspection. These emotional signposts, once understood, can guide us toward becoming better advocates for the talent that surrounds us. They can also be catalysts for the discovery of our own latent gifts.

Faith Notes

It’s paramount to remember that in the grand design, God has endowed each one of us with unique gifts and talents.

“For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.”
– Romans 12:4-5 (KJV)

These gifts are not pitted against each other in a celestial contest. Rather, they are meant to be harmonious, complementing each other in the beautiful tapestry of life. When we align ourselves with this divine wisdom, we learn to celebrate the successes of others without reservation, viewing them not as threats, but as sources of inspiration for our own spiritual and personal growth.

May we continually strive to elevate one another, recognizing and cherishing the brilliance in those around us. In doing so, let us light our paths with the wisdom and love born of sincere humility and unconditional support.

“A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.”
– John 13:34 (KJV)