In our own lives, God sometimes works in a similar way. He will send or allow stormy circumstances that shake loose the "lifeless branches" we've been refusing to release. Sometimes it's something that once was good, like an area of ministry, but is n longer bearing fruit. More often it's something that's not good, like a bad habit I've slid into or a stubborn attitude that prevents new growth.
The Old Testament prophet Jonah discovered what an happen when one refuses to get rid of a stubborn attitude. His hatred for the Ninevites was stronger than his love for God, so God sent a great storm that landed Jonah in a giant fish. God preserved the reluctant prophet in that unlikely place and gave him a second chance to obey.
The lifeless limbs in our yards cause us to think of attitudes that God expects us to dispose of. Paul's letter to the Ephesians lists some of them: bitterness, anger, and evil speech. When God shakes things up, we need to get rid of what He shakes loose.
Lord, give me a listening heart and help me to cooperate with You when You point out changes that need to be made in my life. I want to honor You and please You. Amen
Read: Jonah 1
Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. Ephesians 4:31
1 comment:
AMEN!
Post a Comment