May 2

Judges 15:1-16:31, John 2:1-25, Psalms 103:1-22, Proverbs 14:17-19

Pray: Lord, today I come to You with a heavy heart for the many in this community that do not know You. I pray for their eternal souls and ask that through the power of Your Holy Spirit, You would give them an inexplicable desire to have more. More peace in their lives, more peace in their homes, more of a feeling of self-worth and more of a community within which to be a part of. Lord, we are all searching for more… may that “more” be You, God. Amen.

Read: We continue the story of Samson in our Old Testament reading today and see his anger against the Philistines following his former bride being given away in marriage to his best man… talk about wedding day drama! We also read of Samson’s meeting Delilah and her attempts to get Samson captured and determine the source of his strength. Ultimately, Samson gives in to her wiles and reveals his secret, which leads to his capture and “Samson’s Final Victory”. In the New Testament, we begin the journey with Christ during the beginning of His ministry starting at the wedding at Cana where He performed His first miracle and the moment where the anger of God is exhibited through His human son at the clearing of the temple.

Edify: The Psalmist reminds us through his writings of who God is by the things that God does for us. While we are reminded in Proverbs that the wise are cautious but the fool will “plunge ahead with great confidence”. It is important as followers of Christ for us to be careful and cautious before we move forward on anything that we do.  Sometimes it is frustrating when all we want is a “yes” or a “no” and we get “let me think about it” from our boss. The truth is that your boss is living into this proverb and being cautious before making a decision, because that decision impacts many others. 

Practice: Today, practice patience in your decision-making. Don’t offer the quick answer but consider all aspects and the ramifications of your decision.  It’s easy to say yes and be popular, but it may not be the best for the organization or your family. Sometimes, you have to say no for the sake of the organization or the family. Being a leader means not always being liked. Be thoughtful today before you respond.