By Charity Pence
This Week’s Verse: 1 Peter 4:10, “As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” (NKJV)
Devotion: I have been told I am a good listener. What a compliment! It is nice to know my friends are comfortable enough, and trust me enough, to share their troubles with me. Though sometimes they come to me seeking advice, most of the time they just need me to listen. I believe we are meant to encourage each other, and uplift each other. James 4:16 says, “Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” (KJV) I really enjoy being an encourager to my friends. However, I often struggle with being on the other side.
I cannot explain why I hold back when something is troubling me. Lately, I have felt like I am dealing with more than I can handle. And though I put my trust in God and pray, I tend to keep my mouth shut around other people. People ask me how I am and I tell them I am fine. It seems I have been using that word a lot recently. Sometimes when I say it, I want to cringe because it isn’t always true. So why is that my answer? It has always been difficult for me to open up to others. However, God has put some awesome people in my life. The last few years have shown me how great my church family is. I think it is about time I trust in them more often.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for providing for me in all my needs. And thank you, thank you, thank you for the people you have put in my life.
Applications: The next time you feel overwhelmed, do not be afraid to call on a brother or sister in Christ. God puts special people in our lives for a reason. Believe that!
Power Verses:
1 Peter 3:8 “Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous.” (NKJV)
Psalm 133:1 “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity.” (KNJV)
Proverbs 15:22 “Without counsel, plans go awry, but in the multitude of counselors they are established.” (NJKV)
2 comments:
What a good reminder to be a listener too! Thanks for sharing
We are all meant to encourage one another, listen to one another and pray for each other. The Lord does place people in our lives for a reason, even if we don't see that reason right from the start like He does. Thanks for sharing in this blog. Keep up the good work.
Christy C.
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