Scripture: Colossians 4:2-6
Journal: When was the last time you wished you could have a do-over in ministry? What would you do or say differently? How would you be different in the midst of
the situation or relationship? What does
it look like to be prayerful and watchful and thankful? How does that change the way you respond to a
situation? How will you be different the
next time?
Reflection: Did you ever wish you could have a do-over? You know, like when you
get to the end of a conversation or an event and you think, "I really
missed it there." As a matter of fact, in your desire to be helpful—to
whoever it was that you were speaking to or sitting with—you were actually
anything but that. The desire was a wonderful thing, and came from a
beautiful place, but it actually kept you from creating the space for them to
be. For some reason you talked a little too much and listened a
little too little, so that the time became more about you than about
them. So, you look back and long for another chance, not for your sake
but for theirs. Because what they were really looking for and hoping
for was just someone to be with them; and your misguided desire kept you from
being able to do that. Luckily God is big enough to use even our bumbling
and our fumbling to accomplish His purposes. I guess that’s some
consolation, huh? Plus the fact that next time, I’ll know better…I hope.
(Pieces by Jim Branch)
Prayer
Closing
Prayer: Pray diligently. Stay alert, with your eyes wide open in
gratitude. Don’t forget to pray for us,
that God will open doors for telling the mystery of Christ, even while I’m
locked up in this jail. Pray that every
time I open my mouth I’ll be able to make Christ plain as day to them.
Use your heads as you live
and work among outsiders. Don’t miss a
trick. Make the most of every
opportunity. Be gracious in your speech. The goal is to bring out the best in others
in conversation, not put them down, not cut them out. (Colossians 4:2-6, The
Message)
No comments:
Post a Comment