Oh my goodness – today we turn the page on the calendar to a new month. This year is half over, will the next six months go as quickly as these have?
My heart’s prayer is to have every day be one of purpose, filled with compassion and direction.
The words that came to my mind are from the book of James:
“My dear friends, you should be quick to listen and slow to speak or to get angry. 20 If you are angry, you cannot do any of the good things God wants done.” James 1:19-20 CEV
Listen more, speak less and don’t get angry! “Lord, that’s a big assignment.”
I read systematically from Psalms each day. I find such practical instruction there. This morning I read from chapter 37. Look here at what the Lord has to say:
“Don’t be annoyed by anyone
who does wrong,
and don’t envy them.
2 They will soon disappear
like grass without rain.
3 Trust the Lord and live right!
The land will be yours,
and you will be safe.
4 Do what the Lord wants,
and he will give you
your heart’s desire.
5 Let the Lord lead you
and trust him to help.
6 Then it will be as clear
as the noonday sun
that you were right.
7 Be patient and trust the Lord.
Don’t let it bother you
when all goes well for those
who do sinful things.
8 Don’t be angry or furious.
Anger can lead to sin.
9 All sinners will disappear,
but if you trust the Lord,
the land will be yours.” Psalm 37:1-9 CEV
There’s more to this chapter, another 31 verses to be exact. The theme of the whole chapter is trusting the Lord and following His lead.
Do you see how well this ties in with the verses from James?
Quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to get angry. Don’t be annoyed, don’t be bothered, don’t get angry. Trust the Lord and follow HIS lead!
Follow His lead. He has given us written instruction and He promises to walk with us each day.
“The Lord will hold your hand, and if you stumble, you still won’t fall.” Psalm 37:24 CEV
Christ is our example; we should keep our focus on Him. Don’t be annoyed by anyone who does wrong – Trust in the Lord. That instruction will serve us well as we continue through the second half of the year.