Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – September 28, 2014
One thing God has spoken, two things I have heard: “Power belongs to you, God, and with you, Lord, is unfailing love.” Psalm 62:11-12a
The Lord is all-powerful and all-loving. He is tough and tender. Jesus Christ is angry at religious hypocrisy and forgiving toward genuine repentance. He is a strong support in the middle of suffering and provides loving reminders to those who stray from His ways. He is friends with sinners and prays for His enemies. His holy heart lovingly leads with wisdom and mercy. Our image of God influences how we treat others. For example, our children need us to be tough and tender. We love them by explaining the “why” behind “what” we ask them to do. Wise rules enforced with a gracious attitude bring the best results.
Are you troubled by the tension that God is both tough and tender? If so, use this discomfort to place yourself in an aggressive posture of prayer. Ask the Holy Spirit to lead you in the appropriate way to apply firmness and friendliness in your work relationships. Things and people are normally not as bad or good as they might seem. Your family and friends need to see you tough and tender. By God’s grace be humbly bold!
“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline” (2 Timothy 1:7).
Related Readings: Exodus 15:13; Psalm 36:7; Acts 4:33; 6:8; Ephesians 3:18
Taken from the September 28th reading in our new book, The Way of Wisdom: A Journey Towards Spiritual Growth, coming in October! Pre-order your copy today.
Boyd’s one minute video about the new book- http://bit.ly/1nhZ2bt
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I have learned this especially in the last 6 months since the passing of my father with two brothers who–although older–need to hear what an adult Christian sounds like. Thanks for the perspective.
Dear Edward~
First, let me say that I am sorry about the passing of your earthly father. I hope you find sweet comfort in your memories with him. Let the Great Comforter hold you tight during this time. We are thankful that the devotional, “Tough and Tender” blessed you with some clarity regarding your relationship with your brothers. Isn’t it awesome how the Lord gets His message to us through the words of a devotional, other people, circumstances and His Word? We give God all the glory! He never ceases to amaze me.
The last sentence of the devotional summarized our call to action: “By God’s grace be humbly bold!”
Thank you, Edward, for taking the time to let us know your thoughts. We are so thankful that you are a fellow wisdom hunter and look forward to hearing from you again.
Believing and trusting~
Gwynne
He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” Psalm 91:1,2