Return to Egypt

And it came to pass, when Pharaoh had let the people go, that God led them not through the way of the land of the Philistines, although that was near; for God said, Lest peradventure the people repent when they see war, and they return to Egypt: (KJV) (Exodus 13:17) 

Rather than take the shortest, most direct route to the Promised Land, the Lord took them on a longer path to avoid the Philistines.  Why? God knew they were weak and if forced with choosing between a battle or slavery they would rather be a slave.  Are there situations where we choose to be a slave rather than battle?  We can be slaves to our guilt, bitterness, or blame rather than do the work to be freed.  Have you chosen to be a slave to your blame and resentment rather than do the work to forgive?

Clothe Yourselves

Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; (KJV) (Colossians 3:12) 

What would it look like if believers took this verse to heart? The business world would be a different place, driving during rush hour would be a different experience, and so too our own homes would be different. The world would be a better place. Do you think the world needs more mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, or patience? Choose one of these clothes and focus on wearing it this week.

By Himself

And when he had sent them away, he departed into a mountain to pray. (KJV) (Mark 6:46) 

Prior to this verse Jesus had performed a miracle by feeding thousands with only a bit of food.  His immediate reaction is to draw away to pray and rest.  Praying has a way of filling you up with energy, restoring, and recharging.  It's very important if we have intense schedules or physically demanding duties, we take time to reconnect with God and restore ourselves.  If you are able, take today to draw away, in order to draw close to the Lord.  If today isn't possible, plan a day this week to do this.

Just As Damaging

As a mad man who casteth firebrands, arrows, and death, So is the man that deceiveth his neighbour, and saith, Am not I in sport? (KJV) (Proverbs 26:18-19) 

We do this carelessly every day, make a negative comment towards someone and brush it off as a joke.  However this is a treacherous act that is damaging to that friend and any onlookers who think of you as a friend.  Sift your joke through the filter of love and warmth and avoid using jokes as a weapon.

Least Expected

Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh. (KJV) ( Matthew 24:44 ) 

Ever had a pop quiz where a teacher surprisingly hands out a quiz without any notice?  If you have been studying and following along then you find yourself prepared for the unexpected.  The same is true for Christ's return in that we have no way of knowing when it will happen.  Are you making choices and living in a manner that means you are prepared for the unexpected return of Christ?

Seeds of Deeds

The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise. (KJV) ( Proverbs 11:30 ) 

Has someone done something thoughtful for you lately?  Have they gone out of their way for you?  It's easy to keep moving on or get busy and forget about recognizing them.  However, it's important to express to them your grateful heart.  Put a little thought into how you want to express your gratitude through friendship.

Gently Instruct

In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; (KJV) ( 2 Timothy 2:25 ) 

No one likes to be told they are wrong, but yet we are encouraged to share the truth.  It's important to focus on thoughtfully and gently sharing truth with people who oppose.  Gentle truth may not necessarily come in the form of words.  It can be shared through kindness, hospitality, actions, sacrifice, which can speak louder than words while God is working on their hearts.

Scoffers Will Come

Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, (KJV) ( 2 Peter 3:3 ) 

Days will come when we hear, read, or see scoffers who mock our beliefs.  Hold firmly to your faith.  Everyone will meet the Lord and account for their actions.  You can stand firm in knowing your faith is stronger than the words of a cynic.  Have you strengthened and grown your faith to withstand the pressures from nonbelievers?

Rebuilder

And they that shall be of thee shall build the old waste places: thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations; and thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in. (KJV) ( Isaiah 58:12 ) 

Living in a broken world means bad things happen to us. We have the choice of allowing those bad things to take shape in our heart and become deserted ruins. Or we can choose to pick up the pieces, confront, forgive, extend grace, and heal. Through a relationship with Christ, you have the power to rebuild families, overcome hurts, and restore relationships. Will you choose to be a rebuilder or be owned by bitterness?

Right Time

Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: (KJV) ( 1 Peter 5:6 ) 

Pride is a difficult, thorny root that slowly takes hold in your heart.  It's deceptive and is difficult to perceive let alone conceive its presence in our lives.  Do you trust that the Lord will honor you at the right time?  Failure to trust that God will honor you will lead you to boast to yourself and others about your greatness.  As you walk through your day, keep an eye out for any roots that may trip you up.

For Me

The LORD is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me? (KJV) ( Psalm 118:6 ) 

Fear, it leads to worry and obsession.  It causes us to overreact or become paralyzed with inaction.  When you feel the anxiety rising up in your throat and constant reminders abound to keep your broken record of thoughts swirling around, fear not.  For the Lord is with you.  If you seek Him, He will provide peace, comfort, and understanding.  When the fear begins to rise up, conquer it!  Do not let fear reign over you.  The Lord is more powerful than fear.

Deep Distress

Turn thee unto me, and have mercy upon me; for I am desolate and afflicted.  The troubles of my heart are enlarged: O bring thou me out of my distresses. (KJV) ( Psalm 25:16-17 ) 

Nothing is more disturbing than being in distress and all alone.  Isn't this why people who don't believe in God turn to Him when there is no where else to turn?  We don't have to walk alone though.  God is literally dying for you to turn to Him for help with your problems.  It doesn't take much. Just pray for God to guide and lead you in the right direction.

To Everyone

As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith. (KJV) ( Galatians 6:10 ) 

Who wants to be taken advantage of?  No one.  However, we are called to do good to everyone and not be selective in who we serve.  Do you let fear of exploitation of your generosity keep you from sharing with others?  It's a good thing Jesus didn't have this fear when He chose to die on the cross for sins He knew we would commit again and again.

Words

He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life: but he that openeth wide his lips shall have destruction. (KJV) ( Proverbs 13:3 ) 

Do you measure your words carefully?  Do you filter and refine them before throwing them out for all to hear?  Much can be communicated between words such as attitudes, values, and perceptions.  Even as simple as changing a word can mean all the difference between offending someone or finessing a situation.  It's easy to launch words for all to hear, but impossible to take them back.  Yes, opening your mouth can ruin everything.

Gold Jewelry

As an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, so is a wise reprover upon an obedient ear. (KJV) ( Proverbs 25:12 ) 

Criticism can be tough to swallow.  What if criticism were viewed as a prized possession that's wrapped with great care, presented with honor, and accepted with gratitude?  The verse above points out that valid criticism only becomes precious to anyone who listens.  When you listen to criticism are you listening for negativity or constructive gold?

Your Mess

Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the LORD his God: (KJV) (Psalm 146:5) 

Where do you turn when your life turns into a mess?  How do you pick up the pieces?  A mess is always easier to clean when you have someone helping you.  God is just waiting for you to invite Him into your mess.