Thought for the day
A young somewhat cocky cowboy was riding his horse one day when he spied a hunched-over old farm hand on a mule. Deciding to have a little fun, the young cowboy drew his six-shooter and told the old man to get down off his mule. He then asked the old man "if he had ever danced" and began to empty his revolver at his feet with great laughter.
The old man slowly turned back to his mule (unamused) and put his hand into his pack and drew a shotgun, aimed it at the now bullet less young cowboy and said, "Did you ever kiss a mule?
"To which the young cowboy said with fright, "No, but I have always wanted to! "There is nothing like a bullet for motivation. What is it, though, that provides you with the motivation to serve God day after day?
Perhaps you are motivated by the fear of punishment if you don't. It's a valid motive -- that's why Jesus told us about hell.Or perhaps you are motivated by the hope of reward. Again, it's a valid motive -- that's why Jesus told us about heaven.
But I would suggest to you that there is an even higher motive and that is to serve God out of a love and appreciation for all that He has done for us.
As a parent, that's what I hope for my children. They may at times obey me to avoid punishment or to gain some reward I've promised them, but I hope that in time they come to listen to me simply because they love and respect me."We love Him because He first loved us." (I John 4:19)Whatever your motivation, may you give your life wholly to God this day!
Verses
Numbers 23:19
God is not a man, to say what is false; or the son of man, that his purpose may be changed: what he has said, will he not do? and will he not give effect to the words of his mouth?
Deuteronomy 7:15
"And the Lord will take away from you all sickness, and will afflict you with none of the terrible diseases of Egypt which you have known, but will lay them on all those who hate you.
James 4:10
Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.
Philippians 4:19
I am sure that God on my behalf will satisfy all your needs out of the treasure of His glory in Christ Jesus.
Prayer
Father, You are great in power and unsurpassed in wisdom. Though Your marvelous handiwork is seen in every direction, Your most awesome work is visible in the way You change and redirect our lives. When we consider the saints throughout history and the marvelous saving power exhibited in their lives we’re encouraged by their example and enduring walk with You. We recognize these “greats” of the past and those in our own generation who are faithful and powerful examples. They do not build their own kingdom or take credit for their accomplishments. Instead they declared it is God and God alone who deserves our truest praise, no matter the sacrifice. So we praise You, Lord, and You alone this day as we seek to be faithful even to the end. Amen.
