Old Testament reading: Psalm 61-65
Why must we always “hit the ground running?” David’s attitude to start his day was, “Early will I seek you” (Psalm 63:1). From the early dawn David daily set his affections on his God. Conversely, we often open my eyes to the new day thinking of all we need to accomplish and begin to plan accordingly. At the end of the day we retire to our beds thinking of all that was not finished or the tasks awaiting us tomorrow, whereas David said, “When I remember you on my bed, I meditate on you in the night watches” (v 6). What better way to start our day or retire to sweet dreams than dwelling on the goodness of God?
New Testament reading: John 6-7
“A prophet is not without honor, except in his own country and in his own house” (Matt 13:57). A preacher always has a special affinity for his hometown. I used to think, “If I could just go home and show my hometown folks how much I’ve changed, I could have a great impact.” However, I have preached many times in my home congregation as well as preaching in close to a dozen gospel meetings in the area. Less than a handful of my non-Christian or friends have ever made the effort to come. This same lesson is illustrated in the life of our Lord as recorded in John 7. Not only did Jesus’ brothers not believe in Him, they were openly antagonistic toward Him and His work. Note how they openly mocked him in verses 3-4, ‘Why are you staying at home? Why do you continue to preach and perform in small towns? If you want to be a public figure, take your production to Jerusalem; go to the big city.’ Jesus responded by noting His brothers could go to Jerusalem at any time without tumult or torment, primarily because they were silent (or worse still, sympathetic) to the world’s wickedness. Speaking out against evil is never a popular message. It only resounds with the faithful few. Jesus’ brothers would not be among that number until after His resurrection from the dead.
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