“There is a treasure to be desired and oil in the dwelling of the wise; but a foolish man spendeth it up.” Prov. 21:20
Today’s Christian Daily Devotional
I know a man that has a hard time keeping a job. For some reason he does not understand the concept of it. He moves from company to company, usually with a trail of lawsuits and bitter reasons for bad behavior.
When he is working, as soon as he gets his paycheck, it is swiftly squandered on treasures found in his local gas station: cigarettes, beer and food that can survive a nuclear blast.
Between jobs and lawsuits, he has come to me for money just to “get him by”. This has happened on several occasions.
I understand rough times. There were days when I said goodbye to my favorite things and exchanged them for pennies on the dollar at a consignment store. I have lost weight as a result of my wallet being slim, not from a purposeful restraint.
As I slowly found footing and got back on my feet—I learned many things along the way up. I realized that there were many “needs” that were not crucial for my existence. I also found a heart of compassion for those who are less fortunate. For a short period, I was a member of their club.
These memories never left me and I contribute to various causes that the Lord puts on my heart. When there is a need, and if I have the means, I try my best to fill it.
When I read Prov. 21:20, I see so much wisdom in it. If I were to give my money to a man who shows no responsibility or restraint on his behalf, I have become the fool. I will soon be the destitute one because there will be no lack of “need” from his end.
Spiritual maturity is learning to listen to the needs God places on our hearts, not bowing down to the guilt and manipulation of the ones who will take advantage of our good intentions. God help us to see beyond guilt and serve Him in areas where we will not get instant gratification.
“Dear Heavenly Father,
I am growing in you and I really want to serve you with my all. I know that means there will be a sacrifice of my time, effort and even my finances. Lord, help me not to be stingy with you. You are a generous God and deserve all that I have. I know I serve you when I serve others.
Help me to serve others with wisdom. If you do not give me peace about a situation, let me follow your way no matter what the cost. I know your path will not be the path of least resistance, but it will lead to greener pastures in the end.
I want to love authentically. Sometimes that means I must not allow a person to be co-dependent on me to supply their needs. That is what you are there for. Lead the people you want me to help into my life and draw the ones who are trying to take advantage of me to instead take advantage of your free gift of love and supernatural guidance. In Jesus’ precious name, Amen.”
Thank you for reading today’s daily devotional. Please check back and see what we have for you tomorrow!
Author: Julia Shalom Jordan
A special thank you to Pastor Tom C. Terry for your gentle sheparding.