May 26

2 Samuel 9:1-11:27, John 15:1-27, Psalm 119:49-64, Proverbs 16:1-3

Pray: Praying the Psalms can be a powerful spiritual practice. Let's do it again today by praying a portion of Psalm 119. Our prayer: Dear God, open our eyes today through Your Holy Spirit to all that You want to communicate to us. As we now recite the words of the Psalmist let this prayer become our own,

“With all my heart I want your blessings.

    Be merciful as you promised.

59 I pondered the direction of my life,

    and I turned to follow your laws.

60 I will hurry, without delay,

    to obey your commands.” Amen.

Read: David cares for Jonathan’s son Mephibosheth in an act of honor and tribute to his dear friend. At the same time David does not go to war, doesn’t engage in the work he is called to do, and gives in to adultery, murder and a blatant abuse of power. Can these two almost polar opposite qualities exist in the same person? The short answer is yes. David allowed his appetites to control him instead of him controlling his appetites. When we don’t have healthy boundaries and are not doing what we are supposed to do with who we are supposed to be doing life with, then we drift into sin and unhealthy places. Healthy boundaries help produce healthy habits which lead to a healthier life and relationships.

Edify: Jesus doesn’t just invite us into ministry with Him but Jesus frankly says, “If you do not abide in me and in my love then you will perish.” The branch cannot survive apart from the vine no more than we can survive spiritually apart from the One who gives us life and life transforming grace. Jesus’ word for us is to “abide in him”. This is not only through scripture but through prayer and through the Holy Spirit living within us as Jesus taught us in John 14. So, ask the Holy Spirit now to fill you, ask the Holy Spirit now to abide in you and fill you with God’s unconditional love. The question is often asked, “How far can I go in life?” The answer is, “As far as you can grow.” Decide today to add value to yourself by abiding with Christ. Learning something new by reading an article or blog on Christian growth.

Practice:  Today’s practice actually comes from Proverbs for here is true wisdom in how to maximize not only our day but our life:

1 We can make our own plans,

    but the Lord gives the right answer.

2 People may be pure in their own eyes,

    but the Lord examines their motives.

3 Commit your actions to the Lord,

    and your plans will succeed.

Question: What are you committing to the Lord today?