Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today- October 2, 2013
If someone else thinks they have reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for righteousness based on the law, faultless. But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. Philippians 3:4-7
Everyone has a story. Maybe your story is similar to mine. A story of my parent’s divorce at age five followed by confusion, hurt and blame. A story of insecurity and distrust based on a constant state of transition and multiple moves. Embarrassed by being the new kid in the class, over and over again. A story of a coach who loved Christ and loved his wife, who led Bible studies and encouraged me in my undeveloped faith. At 19, Jesus entered the screen play of my life as Lord.
Married my high school sweetheart, whose family’s faith in God flourished. My bride was and is my best friend. She is also the best wife and mom I know. My father-in-law became my mentor of hard work and how to love my family. Sold my service business, graduated with a Masters of Divinity, worked in large churches, started three ministries and experienced the joy of my Dad’s salvation. Blessed with four daughters, three sons-in-laws and four grand babies. Have survived by God’s grace, prostate cancer, abusive stepfathers, rejection and financial challenges. My story.
I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. 2 Timothy 1:5
So, each day we look into the eyes of each person the Lord sends our way and we inquire about their story. A rough persona may mask a big, insecure heart. A hyper happy person may be hiding intense hurt that needs the healing touch of God’s grace. A fatigued face may have been up most of the night with a special needs child. A sad soul may struggle under a financial burden and a joyful co-worker could use our support and affirmation. Learn another’s story.
Above all else, the story of Almighty God’s grace, love and judgment is the main attraction. Our stories are the warm up band, but His story is what others really want and need to hear. When we submit our story to Christ’s story our story becomes complete and His story becomes the focal point of our life. His humility becomes our humility. His love becomes our love. His sacrifice becomes our sacrifice. His forgiveness becomes our forgiveness. His story becomes our story.
The very credentials these people are waving around as something special, I’m tearing up and throwing out with the trash—along with everything else I used to take credit for. And why? Because of Christ. Yes, all the things I once thought were so important are gone from my life. Compared to the high privilege of knowing Christ Jesus as my Master. Philippians 3:7-9, The Message
Prayer: Heavenly Father, I pray Your story of love and forgiveness becomes my story of love and forgiveness.
Related Readings: Jeremiah 9:23-24; Psalm 73:25; Matthew 1:1-17; Acts 16:1, 22:22-29
Post/Tweet today: Our stories are the warm up band, but His story is what others really want and need to hear. #everyonehasastory
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