Monday, September 7, 2009

What Does God Require of You? by Ann Elaine Broughton

“What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8 NIV).

Remember several years ago when you could see “What Would Jesus Do?” on bracelets? It was a fad some would say, but it should be every Christian’s motto. In order to find out what Jesus would do, you need to read the Gospels which are Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. In those books you will read that Jesus behaved justly, showed mercy, and walked very humbly before God His Father. He was the model for all of those who want to walk in the way that pleases God. He fed the poor, showed mercy to those who were sinners, and gave his life for everyone on the cross so that we could have eternal life some day. Jesus forgave his enemies and told us to do the same. He showed compassion to those who were in need.
He commanded his disciples to be servants and demonstrated his servant’s heart by washing their feet. That was truly humble.
He went to his friends when they were in need because their brother had died and showed his sympathy and compassion by weeping. The shortest verse in the Bible is “Jesus wept” (John 11:35 NIV).
We are to show compassion just like Jesus did. I am sure that there are people in your life that need your compassion and care. When was the last time you prayed for them or did something special for them? Jesus did not sit around and dwell on his own problems all the time. He went out and helped people instead. Their needs were the utmost importance to Him. We are to act unselfishly and give to others out of compassion.
Now your challenge is to read the gospels and ask yourself all the time, “What would Jesus do?” and then act on it. It is too easy to just sit and do nothing. Someone you know needs encouragement, love, and compassion. Do something now. Do it for Him.
Dear Lord,
As we read the Gospels, help us to act more like Jesus. Help us to exhibit His attitude at home, at work, and at our church. Let us be doers of your Word. Lead us to those who need your love and help us to give it unconditionally.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen

Perseverance: A devotion by Ann Broughton

“ And not only this, but we also exult in tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance proven cha...