Discipleship Point
Matthew 5:5
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
It's Discipleship point day. We draw from the Disciple’s Creed, part one:
I believe that God has created me in Christ Jesus to be His workmanship, and that this was His plan for me from the beginning; I believe He has called me to be a witness of His love and grace, sharing the Good News of Jesus wherever I go in life, not merely with words, but also in actions of loving and serving.
It can be hard to share God's love and grace to others when anger keeps leaking out of us. Snap judgments from us can result in serious judgments from others about the legitimacy of our faith in God. No, as disciples we won’t be perfect, but angry outbursts make our witness much more problematic. In fact, it makes the witness about God’s love to other people more difficult too. Pay attention to the attitude you project. Learn to handle life with God – and without angry outbursts that cloud your walk with God (and possibly hinder the walk of others). Let's pray that our actions are more loving and serving rather than loathing and scorning.
Discipleship Prayer
Father God, You have said that I am a witness of Yours at all times, whether I realize it consciously or not. Help me minimize harmful actions and attitudes, and to project a loving and serving spirit that is in tune with your Holy Spirit. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Micro-Meditation
Psalm 119: Immersed in the Word of God
Micro-Meditation
Psalm 119:73-80 10th letter: Yodh (י)
- Your hands made me and formed me;
give me understanding to learn your commands. - May those who fear you rejoice when they see me,
for I have put my hope in your word. - I know, Lord, that your laws are righteous,
and that in faithfulness you have afflicted me. - May your unfailing love be my comfort,
according to your promise to your servant. - Let your compassion come to me that I may live,
for your law is my delight. - May the arrogant be put to shame for wronging me without cause;
but I will meditate on your precepts. - May those who fear you turn to me,
those who understand your statutes. - May I wholeheartedly follow your decrees,
that I may not be put to shame.
Read the versus of the Psalm.
Mark the words or phrases that catch your attention.
Meditate: talk (or better, write) with God about those words. Ask him to impress things upon your heart and mind; expect responses.
Teaching or Command of God
1 Corinthians 11:1
Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.
The Promise
Daniel 12:3
Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever.
Pondering Point
What scenarios or people have capacity to sidetrack you from whole-hearted following of God?