Today's One Thing

Started by Judy Harder, July 23, 2013, 08:57:18 AM

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Judy Harder

Frustrated with a rebellious people, he had not done as God had told him to do. 
 
If your enemy is hungry, give him bread to eat, and if he is thirsty, give him water to drink, for you will heap burning coals on his head, and the Lord will reward you. —Proverbs 25:21-22 (ESV) 
 
Act Don't React
"Mom, I hate people who hate people," Tanya slumped in the passenger seat, defeated.

Keeping her eye on the road, Kathy, could sense her teenager's frustration, but had to chuckle just a little.

"Now, think about what you're saying, honey. You're one of those people."

This reminded Kathy of the story of Moses when he lost his chance to enter the land God had promised to him and his people. He was so frustrated after leading them through the wilderness and dealing with their stubborn, unbelieving, rebellious attitudes. When God told him to raise his staff and speak to a rock so the people would have water, he struck it instead. Frustrated with a rebellious people, he had not done as God had instructed.

"Tanya, don't choose to respond with the same hatred back. Ask God to help you love them. When people are hateful, they're usually hurting somewhere inside," Kathy pointed out as she pulled the car into the garage and leaned in to hug her daughter.

"I guess so," mumbled Tanya, thankful for her mother's comforting hug.

Is there a situation that seems to be bringing out the worst in you? Do you find yourself reacting negatively? Take a deep breath and ask God to help you respond with a loving attitude. Trust Him with the outcome.
Today's One Thing
Pray for someone you're struggling with, and ask God to give you a kind answer the next time you are tempted to give them what they "deserve."
 
Going Deeper
Numbers 20:1-13, Proverbs 15:1

  :angel:


Today, I want to make a difference.
Here I am Lord, use me!

Judy Harder

Love is many things, but more than anything it is trust and integrity. 

 
It does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. —1 Corinthians 13:6 (ESV) 

 
In Action
Jeff just couldn't help himself.

He'd never felt more contented in his entire life. It had nothing to do with his career, or financial status, or even his relationship with his two children—though all was well in all those areas. No, what made him happiest, he realized as he pulled into the familiar parking lot, was Cheryl. He knew he experienced a oneness with her that was closer than ever. They'd been through so much together, and now that life was in one of those rare moments where everything was in order and somewhat stress-free, Jeff wanted to surprise her. Again.

He went into the front door of the shop and straight up to the clerk. She flashed him a knowing grin.

"Fancy seeing you here again, Mister Santiago. What will it be this time?"

He looked past her to the colorful display at her back. "I'll take that batch of roses, Marie. The ones with baby's breath."

Marie laughed. "You spoil her, you know. Your wife is a lucky woman."

"I've told you before, I'm the lucky one. Now I've just got to get them home and in a vase before she gets home from work.

Love is many things, but more than anything it is trust and integrity, peppered with some planned spontaneity to show how much you care. Whether it's for a spouse, a family member, or a friend, put your love for them in action. God will be honored and glorified as you do. 
 
Today's One Thing
Do something kind for someone you love.
 
Going Deeper
Ephesians 5:21-33; 1 Thessalonians 4:1-9; Song of Songs 2:1-15




:angel:
Today, I want to make a difference.
Here I am Lord, use me!

Judy Harder

The ability to forgive is essential to being a witness for God to others. 
 
Forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. —Mark 11:25 (ESV) 
 
Liberated Heart
In 2 Kings 5 you meet a young girl whose life is beyond understanding, yet infinitely inspiring. She was a slave, held prisoner as a servant in the home of the valiant army commander Naaman. He had it all—power, stature, wealth—but was afflicted with one glaring flaw: leprosy. The girl, cruelly taken from her family, had every reason not to care about her master's plight. She was just a spoil of war to be used in Naaman's service, with no individual rights, no bright future.

Yet she possessed something far greater than physical freedom: she had a liberated heart. She harbored no anger or bitterness about her life or her captors. She had long since forgiven Naaman and his wife, and loved them so much that she boldly and willingly told of the prophet Elisha and his ability to heal. "She said to her mistress, 'Would that my lord were with the prophet who is in Samaria! He would cure him of his leprosy.'" (2 Kings 5:3 ESV) Naaman wisely responded to her caring words and living faith, and was never the same again.

Can such miracles happen to others as a result of your life? Perhaps, but not if you're a slave to unforgiveness. Right now, think of those who've hurt or offended you—and forgive. Then you'll live in a way that's a witness for God to those around you.
 
Today's One Thing
Think of someone by name who needs your forgiveness. Pray for him or her, then meet with and forgive the person.
 
Going Deeper
2 Kings 5:1-18; Luke 17:1-10; 2 Corinthians 2:5-11




:angel:
Today, I want to make a difference.
Here I am Lord, use me!

Judy Harder

Serve the Lord with joyful diligence, and overcome any tendency toward laziness.   
 
Greet those workers in the Lord, Tryphaena and Tryphosa. —Romans 16:12 (ESV) 
 
Try, Try Again
They build bridges, dig tunnels and move mountains—well, sort of. If you or your children have ever enjoyed an ant farm, you know the wonder of watching these industrious little creatures churn out passageways and tirelessly construct miniature sand structures. If a burrow collapses or a dugout falters, it's no problem. They just set to work once again, undeterred and determined to complete their task.

The heroines from today's verse would have been right at home in an ant farm. Tryphena and Tryphosa were likely sisters, perhaps even twins, for it was common then for such people to have similar names. But more than that, these ladies were loyal members of the Christian community at Rome who were respected by Paul for their rigorous labors for the Lord. They knew nothing of slothfulness or apathy. They worked hard, and were commended by name for their efforts.

God casts a disapproving eye on laziness. "Through sloth the roof sinks in," warns Ecclesiastes 10:18 (ESV), "and through indolence the house leaks." There's no reason to be a sluggard physically or spiritually. Serve the Lord with integrity and joyful diligence, and study His Word and pray with zealousness. Persevere in difficulty—and don't worry. If something goes awry, just try, try again. God will strengthen you as you faithfully work for His purposes and His pleasure.
 
Today's One Thing
Press through the discouragement or fatigue, and complete the task God has given you.
 
Going Deeper
Proverbs 6:6-15; Colossians 3:16-24




:angel:
Today, I want to make a difference.
Here I am Lord, use me!

Judy Harder

When resistance, conflict, disagreement, insult, disillusionment and discontent threaten to steal your joy, remember that no one can destroy what God has accomplished through you. 
 
We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed. —2 Corinthians 4:8-9 (ESV) 
 
Never at the End of Your Hope
Christina was pushing hard to complete her degree, with a full-time job and a family in tow. She never expected to go back to school full time, but with encouragement from her boss and husband, and time in prayer with the Lord leading her that way, she began a two-year journey to complete her degree.

Her children were in high school and it just seemed like an unusual time to do it. Then with only three classes left to completion, her oldest daughter injured her knee in a sporting event which required surgery. Between her daughter's surgery, recovery and physical therapy appointments, Christina struggled to see light at the end of the tunnel. With the help of friends, family and a decision to trust God to get her through—she walked the stage at graduation.

When you feel you are at the end of your rope, you are never at the end of your hope because of your relationship with Christ. When resistance, conflict, disagreement, insult, disillusionment and discontent threaten to steal your joy, remember that no one can destroy what God has accomplished in you.
 
Today's One Thing
All the challenges in this life are opportunities for Christ to reveal his power and presence through you. What ONE THING do you need to trust Him for today?
 
Going Deeper
2 Corinthians 4:7-18; 1 Thessalonians 1:2-10

  :angel:


Today, I want to make a difference.
Here I am Lord, use me!

Judy Harder

Words spoken at the right time can bring healing and give someone hope to hang on just a little longer.   
 
Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. —Psalm 19:14 (ESV) 
 
Give Someone Hope to Hang on Just a Little Longer
Penny knew that her friend and co-worker, Gretchen, was going through a hard time with one of her adult children. Due to a reduction in force caused by the economic downturn, he had lost his job after working for a company more than five years. He had fallen into depression and refused to get help.

Penny tried to encourage Gretchen, letting her know that she was praying for her and her son. She'd drop an encouraging note on her desk every once in a while, or send her inspiring quotes through social media that would bring a smile to her face or a laugh to her heart.

Never think that words are not enough. Words spoken at the right time can bring healing and give someone hope to hang on just a little longer. Sometimes what you feel in your heart is difficult to say and you have trouble finding the words.

When you have the opportunity to encourage others as they go through difficult situations, ask the Holy Spirit to give you God's words that will speak to the hurts of those you love. Let God lead you as you speak life and hope into their hearts. Then watch God use you to bring peace and comfort.
 
Today's One Thing
Who could you encourage today with your words?
 
Going Deeper
Psalm 19:1-14; Matthew 12:33-37




:angel:
Today, I want to make a difference.
Here I am Lord, use me!

Judy Harder

Are you open to letting others speak the truth in love into your life?
 
Faithful are the wounds of a friend; profuse are the kisses of an enemy. —Proverbs 27:6 (ESV) 
 
A Friend's Perspective
Tonya had tried to be patient with her friend, Danielle. They had not known each other very long but Tonya believed the Lord had connected them for a reason. They met for lunch a few times a month, went hiking together every once in a while and saw each other regularly at church. As the friendship progressed, Tonya became frustrated because Danielle seemed to never be content. Their time together left her feeling like she'd been slimed with all the drama going on in Danielle's life.

At first, she believed she was in Danielle's life to reassure her, but her encouragement was trampled on during their conversations as her friend continued to unpack her baggage in front of her without putting any of the positive take-aways from Tonya into her suitcase.

One afternoon when they were at lunch, Danielle began again sharing how everything was wrong in her life. When Tonya frowned, Danielle asked what was wrong. Gently, Tonya responded, "Everyone has stuff, but not everyone shares all of it, all the time." She gave a few examples of people she knew who were going through difficulty but still remained positive in the midst of their pain. "I know your stuff is hard," Tonya told her, "but some times I'd like to hear the good stuff God is doing and how you're growing in Him."

"God is doing some good stuff in my life, and I appreciate your honesty, encouraging me to share the positive."

Sometimes a friend can say things that can show you things about yourself from a different perspective, helping you focus on the positive things in life.
 
Today's One Thing
Are you open to let others speak into your life?
 
Going Deeper
Proverbs 27

  :angel:


Today, I want to make a difference.
Here I am Lord, use me!

Judy Harder

When you define the lines, your children can have realistic expectations for the outcome of their choices.   



And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, "This is the way, walk in it," when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left. —Isaiah 30:21 (ESV) 


Define the Lines
Erica's youngest daughter, Shelby had a Facebook account. When some of her friends wrote some vulgar things on her page that she didn't approve of, Erica asked Shelby to delete the posts and speak to her friends. A few days later she realized Shelby had "unfriended" her and she no longer had access to her daughter's page.

At the dinner table she asked Shelby about it. "Mom, I don't want you creeping on my page." "That's fine," Erica replied. "Since I pay for the internet access and your cell phone data usage, I'll need to disconnect those privileges, if I no longer have access to your Facebook page."

"Mom," Shelby started to argue, but Erica shook her head. "That's the way it is. It's your choice." "Okay, I'll re-friend you...and I'll talk to the people who posted the nasty things on my page. I already removed their posts."

"Sounds good," Erica replied as she began to remove the dishes from the table. "Your turn to do dishes, too," she smiled.

Children need boundaries. When you define the lines, they can have realistic expectations for the outcome of their choices. They will learn to be responsible and accountable for their actions as you remain consistent to enforce the consequences you've outlined for their positive or negative behaviors.
 
Today's One Thing
It's important to celebrate with your children. When they make positive choices, give them positive consequences.
 
Going Deeper
Isaiah 30:18-33; Psalm 127:3-5




:angel:
Today, I want to make a difference.
Here I am Lord, use me!

Judy Harder

Whatever you face in life is never beyond God's help. 

So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. As we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal. —2 Corinthians 4:16, 18 (ESV) 
 

Hold On to Your Hope
Jacob was reunited with his son, Joseph, and his grandsons after believing for years that his son was dead. Job's children were killed, and God gave him a new family. Mary watched her brother Lazarus be buried, and then saw him raised from the dead and returned to her.

Even today, you hear how God turned things around in the lives of others. A baby that doctors are convinced should be aborted because he isn't developing correctly is born complete and healthy. A person survives a car accident and paramedics can't figure out how she made it out alive. In many cases, someone trusted God and refused to give up hope.

This life has pain and disappointment, but whatever you face in life is never beyond God's help. We can never give up on hope because our loving God can turn things around. We can only imagine what good God will bring out of what appears, in the beginning, to be a hopeless situation. Hold on to your hope today.
 
Today's One Thing
What ONE THING are you trusting God to turn around in your life? Open the Bible and read encouraging scriptures to build your hope in Him today.
 
Going Deeper
2 Corinthians 4:7-18; Numbers 23:19




:angel:
Today, I want to make a difference.
Here I am Lord, use me!

Judy Harder

Sin is offering you something. The world says it's ok to take it. Don't.   
 
Whoever is greedy for unjust gain troubles his own household, but he who hates bribes will live. —Proverbs 15:27 (ESV) 


The Lying Bribe
Judas Iscariot stopped in the dark alley, emptying the bag of 30 silver coins into his palm. Looking down into the soft gleam of the precious metal in his hand, he thought about his treachery and betrayal of the man he'd professed, in front of all the other disciples, to love devotedly. He wanted safety. He wanted protection. But the kind of protection Jesus was offering didn't seem all that safe. To Judas, the "safety" of Christ meant doing all that the religious leaders hated and resented. It was too dangerous. It was foolish to think that flying the flag of rebellion in their face would really usher in God's kingdom.

He put the silver back in his coin purse and slowly walked down the dusty street. With only the smallest nagging doubt in the back of his mind, he thought to himself that this was a much more tangible security, and would serve him better.

Judas' betrayal was treacherous. His priorities were misplaced. As a child of God there will be temptations; lusts and pleasures that this world promises will be more fulfilling than the love and security of Jesus death and resurrection. But God has offered a way for you to repent and trust in Him.

Don't let the world bribe you away from what is honest and true. Remember that God's promises can be trusted. He is faithful to the end!
 
Today's One Thing
Today, meditate for 20 minutes on a reward you might be accepting instead of serving Christ, and pray that God would turn your heart away from it, and back to Him.
 
Going Deeper
Romans 1:18-32




:angel:
Today, I want to make a difference.
Here I am Lord, use me!

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