First Fruits of the Day: July 2015

Thursday, July 30, 2015

Genesis 11:9

That is why it was called Babel-because there the Lord confused the language of the whole world. From there the Lord scattered them over the face of the whole earth.

Sometimes I get so frustrated when I have communication problems with people. Sometimes we just don't see eye to eye. But maybe there's a reason for the communication problem. Not just language but social and cultural differences can make communication a challenge.

Lord, please help me to remember that even challenges are part of your plan. Amen.

Tuesday, July 28, 2015

Genesis 9:22

But Shem and Japheth took a garment and laid it across their shoulders; then they walked in backward and covered their father's naked body. Their faces were turned the other way so that they would not see their father naked.

The other day while watching a movie I heard this quote:

On a team, we try to make everyone look good and don't do things that point out the mistakes of other.

I think the example of Noah youngest son's demonstrates this quote beautifully. This is an area I really need to improve in. I think I am so concerned that everyone thinks I'm doing a good job, I find it necessary to point it out when others are not. I need to be a better team player and help everyone on the team look good and do their best.

Lord, please help me to remember to be a good team player and not point out the mistakes of others. Amen.

Thursday, July 23, 2015

Matthew 16:15-16

“But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”

I heard a great sermon Sunday with this verse as the focus. The speaker reminded us that regardless of what is happening in the world around us, the important question is "Who do you say I am?" We can't control the choices and beliefs of others, but we can control our choices and beliefs.

Lord, Jesus is the Messiah, your Son. Amen.

Tuesday, July 21, 2015

Nehemiah 8:10

Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”

I love this song by Twila Paris.

The joy of the Lord will be my strength
I will not falter, I will not faint
He is my Shepherd, I am not afraid
The joy of the Lord is my strength

The joy of the Lord