Word for the day "It's time to take a close look at those that are close to you"
I Samuel 3: 19-21 (MSG) Samuel grew up. God was with him, and Samuel’s prophetic record was flawless. Everyone in Israel, from Dan in the north to Beersheba in the south, recognized that Samuel was the real thing—a true prophet of God. God continued to show up at Shiloh, revealed through his word to Samuel at Shiloh.
We all have had times of bad judgment that have impacted our lives.
Samuel was one of the great men of faith and one of the great leaders in Israel's history. He served as priest, prophet, Intercessor and Israel's last judge.Although, Samuel was a great leader he lacked good judgement, which proved to be costly in critical areas of his life.The challenges he faced could have been avoided if he had just used better judgment.We are faced with the same challenge in our lives today, how to navigate through life in our humanity.How many times did you make a decision and wished you would have used better judgement in your decision making?Today’s message will speak to the need for the Lord’s influence in all our decisions and actions in life.
How we handle our family and matters of the heart, must be done with Godly influence.
Samuel was human, and he had areas of bad judgement in his life when it came to his children. Many parents have bad judgement when it comes to our children.Samuel appointed his sons as judges in his place. The problem was that his sons were not the men of character that he was.Scripture tells us they "were money focused over being God-focused, and, accepted bribes and perverted justice."The people tried to tell Samuel, but for whatever reason, he chose not to reevaluate his decision. Samuel, showed bad judgement when it came to his family (I Samuel 2:12-17).We should seek the counsel of God when it comes to making decisions for our families, as well, as ourselves. It is important to ask Gods guidance and direction.
Thinking clearly and using sound judgement
We often develop excuses and use bad judgement regarding someone we love and want to protect.If Samuel had heard the people's complaints with vigilance, he may have seen the truth before it was too late.He could then have corrected the problem and held his sons accountable for their misappropriations.If others around you are telling you things you don't want to hear, maybe you should stop and evaluate carefully what's being said. And make the proper assessment of what needs to be done to resolve the concern.Making sound decisions and holding your loved ones accountable for their actions, is the Godly thing to do. Oftentimes, we don't want to hurt or confront the ones we love, so we tend to avoid confrontation.By doing so, we are not only hurting them, but we are doing them a great injustice! by holding them accountable, we are helping them to be better people.
Point to ponder
Do you need to assess someone in your life: a friend, child, or maybe a family member? Perhaps it is time to take a close look at those that are close to you!Our Leadership team is especially thankful for those of you who provided financial donations and support in the month of May 2018 by partnering with us in efforts to advance the kingdom of God in this 21st century season: Special thanks to Mr. William Wilson, Ms. Annette Straker, Mr. David Straker, Mr. Kenneth Washington, Mrs. Shakeema Fraser-Lowe, Mrs. Cynthia Waiters-Artis, Ms. Monique Williams, Ms. Karleasa McCoy, and Ms. Gertrude Scott. Why don’t you take the opportunity to write us on our blog and let us know how we are doing in serving you, Great people,Thank you for using the Word Cup devotionals brought to you through Grace and Truth Leadership. Why don’t you take the opportunity to write us on our blog and let us know how we are doing in serving you, Great people.We are a faith-based, donor-supported ministry. If you have been touched by these daily devotionals and would like to make a monthly pledge or a special gift of any amount, please use the link below to give as the Lord leads.Follow me on Twitter @James Baker_jr as I endeavor to encourage and empower leaders of today and tomorrow!Kingdom Blessings,Pastor James Baker, Jr.