Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today- June 26, 2012
“Whoever corrects a mocker invites insult; whoever rebukes a wicked man incurs abuse” (Proverbs 9:7).
Mockers look to stir things up in the moment. They have no long-term solutions, so avoid their cynical, crazy cycle. A mocker’s mind is already made up; he will not change regardless of wise rationale. There are those who return evil for good so do not go there or you may end up in despair. Jesus says the caustic cynic is full of pride.
“Let them alone; they are blind guides of the blind. And if a blind man guides a blind man, both will fall into a pit” (Matthew 15:14 NASB).
What about a family member who seems to be hurtling down a path of destruction? Specifically, you may have a teenager or adult child whose entire focus is friends and freedom. They seem to have rejected all common sense and Christ-like influence. First and foremost, focus on their heart with love and acceptance. If you battle over the external, it will be messy and costly. However, if they change from the inside out, the transformation will be beautiful and enduring.
Ask them to pray, asking the Lord what He thinks about their decisions and choice of friends. Direct them back to Scripture as their Savior’s standard for living. Above all, pursue a peaceful and patient attitude in prayer. Our most significant battles are spiritual; they are won or lost on our knees. The Holy Spirit will lead you when to speak, what to say, and when to remain silent. Everyone wins when you value the relationship over winning the argument.
“Do not rebuke a mocker or he will hate you; rebuke a wise man and he will love you” (Proverbs 9:8).
Prayer: What relationship do I need to quit striving over and give to the Lord?
Related Readings: 2 Chronicles 30:7–9; Proverbs 23:9; Matthew 7:6; 22:4–6
Post/Tweet thistoday: Everyone wins when you value the relationship over winning the argument. #relationship #arguments
Click on our Wisdom Video blog… http://bit.ly/JCjzJB
Comments are closed.
Love it!
I needed this! I have this situation with my brother-in-law who is not a believer! Thank you God for speaking to me!
Your website is a BLESSING!!!! I read it everyday, and learn something new and uplifting from it:D
This is so appropriate for today. A family member is being spiteful, vindictive out of anger lashing out at those who would otherwise support her. Following your advice is one of the hardest things I can do, but it is the wisest advice I can take. Pray for her and all of those she is hurting.
It not always easy to walk away but i have learn to. the Grace of God is Sufficent for us all thank you.
the begining of this year i made a decision that resulted in a roomate. my apartment was falling part i needed to move so iagree to share with a friend but the friend is a male. we both are saves and know God but every since my heart is saying your wrong. i want to change this but i can’t it contract, or leased i need some Godly Wisdom.
please Brenda
Please lift my son JT up for a spiritual breakthrough..I want him to have the Son in his life so badly.
This web sight is an answer to prayer. I have several relationship problem. One of them is the relationship with my son David. He will not speak to his brothers, or me. Pray for me and my family. There needs to be peace in the family of God. Thank you so much.