Wisdom’s Consequences

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In other words, true wisdom is vindicated by its consequences – what it produces. See also James 2:14-17.

Commentary from the MacArthur study Bible, notes for Luke 7:35.

Bearing Others’ Burdens

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Bearing other people’s burdens is difficult, particularly when we have cares and struggles of our own. Nevertheless, we should not try to wait until all of our problems are solved before deciding to emulate the work of Jesus Christ. God’s grace is more than sufficient for both. People all over the world are hurting deeply today. The Lord knows how you can be a servant to someone who needs your friendship. Ask Him to use you as a healing salve to bring another person freedom from burdens.

Commentary from the In Touch devotional by Charles Stanley, May 4, 2018.

Produce

Although we don’t rejoice in adversities themselves, we can find hope, joy, and peace in knowing that our difficulties aren’t in vain. God may be refining our character and melting away things that don’t reflect Christ. If we submit to whatever road the Lord has chosen for us, His Spirit will guide us and – slowly but surely – produce His fruit.

Commentary from the In Touch devotional by Charles Stanley, January 26, 2021.

No Law Against It

Against such there is no law.

Galatians 5:23b

How We Produce Spiritual Fruit

Those who have been blessed with revelation and understanding from God should produce spiritual fruit.

Be encouraged today!

Our Account in Heaven

The Philippians were in effect storing up for themselves treasure in heaven (Matthew 6:20).  The gifts they gave to Paul were accruing eternal dividends to their spiritual account (Proverbs 11:24,25; 19:17; Luke 6:38; 2 Corinthians 9:6).

Commentary from the MacArthur study Bible, notes for Philippians 4:17.

The fruit, not the root

The good deeds commended in Matthew 25:35-36 are the fruit, not the root, of their salvation.

Commentary from the MacArthur study Bible, notes for Matthew 25:34.

Urgent

In a self-serve/customer service/choices galore culture, we may have an inclination to self ( I wonder why!).  We don’t have to focus on self though.  Other options (more options!!) are:

• serve God
• serve others

We can allow God to supply what we need, and He will, while we focus on Him and on others.  The degree of surrender determines the degree of God’s ‘footprint’ in your life.  Less of you makes room for more of Him (John 3:30).

Photo credit: T. Vickrey