God’s Word Says….

Psalm 34:14 (NCV)

Stop doing evil and do good.

Look for peace and work for it.

Thoughts…..

If we are not careful, this could be a Psalm that we would hold out for the new Christian, because it tells what must be done to keep a good/open/honest relationship with God. While I believe that all this is true, I also believe that this particular verse is one of those that we should print out and paste it on our computer screens or on our refrigerators – somewhere that we look often and might therefore be reminded often. For this verse tells me that in any scenario, I must look for the ‘peaceful’ solution, and not the solution that might bring hurt, or strife, or division, or revenge, for these are traits of an unsaved person. Have I, or have you been perfect at this? I would be the first to give a resounding, unfortunate, negative response. Way too often we are so hung up on pleasing a brother, or sister or companion, so we do things to please them, instead of following what is being taught here by David. We are to search for and work hard at finding a peaceful resolution – one that pleases God. Friend, I believe that if we follow this teaching alone, we would find more peace in our families, our friendships, our churches and in our workplaces. Imagine at the end of the day you reflect on the evil you did to please a friend, but then you have God upset at you? Please know that no one is perfect, but God. So as we contemplate this thought today, we will realize that there is fault in those that we will deal with today. But before we get too critical of them, consider what they will be dealing with in you – another imperfect person! Friends, let us seek God and allow Him to show us the way that He would have us resolve our differences. I can assure you that He who led David to pen words for our ongoing enrichment and teaching, will direct us towards a peaceful resolution and one that pleases Him. Take a moment and read this short Psalm, I highlighted a lot of it, because God dealt in my life as I read it. I believe that He too will lead you to all truth through His powerful, exciting and revealing Word!

Prayer……

Lord Jesus, Your Word is powerful. Thank You for working in the life of David. A servant who had many challenges and issues, yet You used Him to write so many words of wisdom for even us to follow. Lord, You are so aware of our wicked minds. Yes even us who call You Lord and look to You for direction and wisdom. Thank You for providing these words to redirect us towards living peaceful and loving lives – lives that will exemplify You in every way. We often see how kids’ minds are swayed by television programs, but seldom do we stop and reflect on how we (Your children) allow the evil of this world to sway our decisions and our actions. Please help us to always look for peace, and strive to achieve it in our everyday decisions and actions. People need to see You reflected in us, not more of the same as they see in the world around them. Please give me strength and power to overcome the things of this world and to strive for peace – Godly peace, in all my decisions and actions. May I represent You well, is my humble prayer. And although I need much help personally, I also pray that You would humble the hearts of Your children that may look to You today after meditating on this devotional. May we all dedicate ourselves to be more like You. I ask all this in Your wonderful and majestic name, the Divine Peacemaker, AMEN!

Action…..

In response to God leading You through this devotional today, please get with a Bible teaching Pastor you may know and allow him to guide you. Otherwise feel free to reply to my post online, or you may email me directly at NuggetsFromGodsWord@outlook.com. I will gladly add you to my prayer list, and/or respond to your request(s) ASAP.