Reflections from March 26, 2010

Today we finish Paul's letter to the Galatians and read in Galatians 6:7, "Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap."

Paul wanted to remind one more time about the liberty of Christ and he did so by telling them that if they fall to things of the flesh, they will reap corruption and sorrow in their lives. However, if they keep the Spirit and Christ first in their lives, then everlasting life will be in store for them. Just as if a farmer did not tend to his crops, he'll reap the weeds.

Let us reap a relationship with God by sowing each day in prayer and in His Word.

Today from Proverbs 26:20-21 we read, "Where there is no wood, the fire goes out; And where there is no talebearer, strife ceases. As charcoal is to burning coals, and wood to fire, So is a contentious man to kindle strife."

Do you know anyone that wants to argue for the sake of argument? Seems to enjoy it? That's probably a contentious person. Webster defines contentious as "exhibiting an often perverse and wearisome tendency to quarrels and disputes." Seems like even if they "win" an argument, they won't stop! I've always found the best approach is to do one of two things: change the subject or walk away. But, the bottom line is that I really don't want to associate with the person very much.

When you think about a person like that, it makes you stop and think if you're doing anything that will have others viewing you that way. And if you think they might, it really is troubling. So, in Solomon's simple words, Stop adding fuel to the fire!

In Proverbs 27:10 we read, "Do not forsake your own friend or your father's friend, Nor go to your brother's house in the day of your calamity; Better is a neighbor nearby than a brother far away."

It's said that blood is thicker than water, but sometimes you won't get what you need in times of trouble from your family. There are too m any skeletons in the closet and those old bones get rattled when there's a need. Or, family members are too jealous and secretly are glad to see problems arise.

True friends are there to help and can provide comfort and assistance when you need it most.

Blessings to all