Reading: Proverbs 2:1-11
The importance of God's Word is clearly explained here. When we dive into the Words God has set out for us, we will become wiser and more knowledgeable in our faith. We can also gain a better understanding and clearer picture of God and His commandments. When we input God's Word, the outflow of our hearts will be filled with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, faithfulness, goodness, gentleness and self-control. The way we answer other about our faith will have a more solid foundation, as you'll be more likely to have the scriptures you need in your heart. Treasure God's Word like silver! Seek it out daily and make it priority in your life.
Reading: Matthew 12:22-45
Jesus gives a pretty good picture of what our hearts are like. He tells the Pharisees that a tree can be identified by its fruit, much like us. If the tree is rooted in good, solid soil, it will have good fruit. However, if it is rooted in bad soil, the fruit it makes will be bad. How does this compare to our hearts? When we are rooted in positive resources like the Bible, the overflow of our hearts and mouths will be good. But when we are rooted on a foundation of bad movies, questionable tv shows and trashy music, what do you think will be the outflow of your heart and mouth? Most likely not anything much good. We need to be so careful in today's world to guard our hearts from the junk the media tries to sell us and show us. It truly does affect you and your children.
Reading: Genesis 32:1-33:20
Life's challenges and paths sure teach and mold us when we don't notice it is. We can definitely see the changes that both Esau and Jacob had made many years after parting on a sour note. Though those experiences aren't always fun, they can sure teach us how to relate to others and realize the places we need growth in. Jacob comes to realize how angry he made Esau because of his selfishness, and the time he spent away showed him just how precious relationships are, as well as how selfish he was for cheating his brother. He could feel that pain after all the ups and downs he had been through with Laban.
When Jacob struggles with God, it is quite evident that this is a defining and enlightening moment for him. This can be symbolic for us as we spend time wrestling with God in prayer when we are faced with times of trouble and worry. The tension Jacob feels in his heart shows the remorse he has for the bad things he did years ago. This out-pouring of his heart shows how sincere he is about the changes he's made in his life. May we allow God to grow us through our life experiences and may we let that growth change us and teach us.
The fruit we bear is a good indicator of our wisdom, growth, and where we're placing our roots. Challenge yourself to get rooted in the Word. Guard your heart from the trash of this world, and allow God to make changes in you through the experiences you go through.
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