Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today- October 13, 2011
“When the LORD brought back the captives to Zion, we were like men who dreamed. Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, “The LORD has done great things for them.” Those who sow in tears shall reap with joyful shouting.” Psalm 126:1-2, 5
Happiness is found in our heavenly Father. It comes from seeing the big picture of where He has brought us, to where He is taking us. If happiness were contingent on cash and comfort, then the modern world would be one laughing lot. However, without heaven as the end in mind, contemporary conveniences actually work against authentic happiness.
Stuff without our Savior, becomes seductive and controlling for its cause. But joy fills our heart when we think of the Lord’s deliverance from our captivity in Christ-less living, into a life of significance. Happiness is the result of giving, not getting, of serving, not being served, and from leading people into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ.
“Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the Lord’s people” (Philemon 1:7).
Therefore, go forth into life and sow seeds of gratitude and generosity, and you will reap a harvest of contentment and fulfillment. You will garner gladness, as you keep God and others as your goal for doing good works. Sow the seeds of acceptance and forgiveness, and you will reap a harvest of acceptance and forgiveness.
“Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life” (Galatians 6:7-8).
Most people tend to treat you as you treat them, and you can trust the exhausting exceptions with the Lord. Take a risk and get emotionally involved with the needy, and you will be happy you did. Surface living is for the shallow, scared and unhappy ones. So get below the facade and feel their pain, weep and watch God work through your tears, as you pray persistently for your prodigal. There is a harvest of happiness waiting, as you sow the seeds of selfless service on behalf of your Savior.
The Scripture teaches, “Sow for yourselves righteousness, reap the fruit of unfailing love, and break up your unplowed ground; for it is time to seek the LORD, until he comes and showers righteousness on you” (Hosea 10:12).
Who can I joyfully serve and bring a harvest of happiness to all involved?
Related Reading: Proverbs 15:30; Ecclesiastes 11:9; 1 Thessalonians 1:6; 2 John 1:4
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