“See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.” Ephesians 5:15-17
Today’s Christian daily devotional
“I just don’t think that she’s a very good role model, Shawna.” Erika clucked her tongue and shook her head in protest.
“It’s just a poster! I don’t see what the big deal is.” Shawna propped the cumbersome decoration on her torso, rolling her eyes.
Aunt Erika was making good on her promise to take Shawna shopping for college dorm supplies. Everything was going fine while they both picked out a duvet together.
Why did Aunt Erika have to spoil the day with her ‘goody two shoes’ thinking?
“I’m not a child anymore.” Shawna flipped the poster. Marilyn Monroe was now covered. She hoped that this would be enough to keep her Aunt from giving her ‘that look’.
The register line moved up a few feet and the twosome shuffled forward.
“You’re right, honey.” Erika had no interest in arguing after the wonderful day they had spent together.
Shawna got what she wanted and that “Some like it Hot” poster hung on her dorm room wall until she graduated.
Before going away to Western Illinois University, Shawna herself dabbled with the dream of perhaps one day becoming a glamorous movie star. But, her love of biology and a generous full scholarship seduced Shawna into thinking a bit more realistic.
The poster of Shawna’s favorite iconic beauty had long since been given to Goodwill before she learned the true life of the ‘perfect’ movie star.
One night, while flipping the television, Shawna caught Marilyn’s biography. For the next two hours, Shawna became entranced by one of the darkest and saddest stories she had ever heard. Ms. Monroe’s life was far from glamorous.
Shawna couldn’t help but think of the many women that have followed in the tragic starlet’s footsteps.
Now, it was plain for Shawna to see why her protective Aunt didn’t want Marilyn’s poster around, perhaps being a subtle influence on Shawna and her decisions.
A good life is the sum of good choices. There are many situations, people and things that will try and influence our decisions.
Do you find your life important? Valuable? Why gamble with it? You’ve only got one. Choose your role models wisely. Because one day, you might end up just like them.
“Dear Heavenly Father,
I repent of my spirit of rebellion. There have been many people I have idolized. I have worshiped man before I even gave thought of worshiping you.
For some reason, I felt like you were in a separate category—unattainable, sitting on a cloud, not relating to humanity as a father but more as an enforcer of unrealistic rules and expectations.
I repent of this. After going through the storms of life, I have turned to you in repentance. And, like the prodigal son, I have found your warmth, patience and comfort as well as your wisdom and guidance.
You are nothing like the ‘god’ the world and religion likes to portray you as. You are more amazing and real than I ever expected.
Forgive me for grieving you by wanting to follow the lead of man instead of the wisdom of you. Help me to remember that there is no human that could supply all my needs, but you have promised to do just that for me.
I will worship you and you alone. In Jesus’ precious name, break the curse of every idol I have put before you. Amen.”
Thank you for reading today’s Christian daily devotional on verses: Ephesians 5:15-17
Please check back and see what we have for you tomorrow!
Author: Julia Shalom Jordan