October 17, 2024 – Think It Through

Think It Through
October 17, 2024

DAILY PROVERB:

Proverbs 25:8-10
 Go not forth hastily to strive, lest thou know not what to do in the end thereof, when thy neighbour hath put thee to shame. Debate thy cause with thy neighbour himself; and discover not a secret to another: Lest he that heareth it put thee to shame, and thine infamy turn not away.

OUTLOOK ON THE IN BOOK:

    Passion, zeal, and enthusiasm are all positive qualities to possess, provided they are kept under control and channeled appropriately. In our verses today, Solomon is cautioning his son about the potential pitfalls of acting impulsively without thoughtful consideration.

    Taking time to think things through does not mean discussing the matter with everyone who crosses your path. Often, we have a tendency to alter or exaggerate facts to win others to our point of view, and we tend to seek out those who agree with us. If the issue involves someone else, resolving it between two believers should typically remain a private matter unless others are directly involved.

    Our wisdom should always come from God. To make sound decisions when faced with a matter, it’s wise to take a moment to pray and seek God’s guidance. Many times, God will intervene and handle the matter for you before any action is required on your part. Deciding to address a problem without first praying about it is akin to entering a battle without a clear strategy. You go in with your preconceived notions of what you want and what’s best for you. However, as believers, our initial question should be: What does God want? What might His priorities be in this situation or decision? How can God use you in the midst of what’s happening?

    While passion, zeal, and enthusiasm are admirable qualities, they should be directed toward doing the work of our Heavenly Father. If this is our primary goal, God will be glorified rather than horrified.

THE WORD WALKING IN ME:

Here are a few straightforward rules for conflict resolution:
➢ Sleep on it if possible: Avoid rushing to judgment; take your time to reflect.
➢ Discuss it privately with the person: Not every issue needs to be aired in public.
➢ Protect your testimony and that of the person involved: Keep in mind that both testimonies play a role in representing God. Remember, the world is watching us.

Do you ever have the tendency to act before you pray?

IF YOU ARE JOURNALING:

Ask yourself, what are MY THOUGHTS concerning this Passage, and todays Devotion?

Do I find within this reading a CHALLENGE for my life?

What are one or two things I WILL DO today or this week to accept that CHALLENGE?

  

GOD TALKING TO ME: October 17, 2024

THROUGH THE BIBLE WITH A DAILY PROVERBS
  Luke 3 – Luke 5
  Proverbs 25:8 – 10

THROUGH THE BIBLE OLD & NEW TESTAMENT DAILY
  Isa. 45-48
  Col. 4