February 28, 2014 (Numbers 24-27; 1 Corinthians 13)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “When I was a child, I spoke and thought and reasoned as a child. But when I grew up, I put away childish things.” 1 Corinthians 13:11 NLT
Observation: One of the most important aspects of life is growing, not only physically but spiritually as well. As people we must learn to grow from children into mature adults applying the lessons life has taught us. As we grow into maturity we must remember to temper all of our learning with love. Love is the supreme attribute of a person that is growing mature spiritually. Though we may not have all the answers and we may not fully understand the reasoning behind every action others take, we can put away childish understanding and conduct ourselves in a manner that pleases and honors God. Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand it’s on way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It would serve us well to remember this the next time we encounter our enemies.
Application: Though some people struggle accepting this personal responsibility at some point in life we all have to “grow up”. Age really has very little to do with growing up. Some have passed from child to adult at a very young age. I myself have been working a full time (40 hour plus a week) job since I was 14 years old. Circumstances beyond my control demanded I work and help support my parents and sisters. Sometimes it seems I was catapulted from kid to man overnight, but the reality is really much different. Honestly I didn’t “grow up” until I was 27 years old. I made a mess of my life working like a man and making decisions like a child up until that point. Then Jesus found me! He delivered me from the depths of immature despair. He pulled me out of the miry pit and planted my feet on the solid foundation. I’m still building, and growing, on that foundation and I pray I never stop.
Prayer: Dear Lord thank You for that faithful day You found me. Thank You for the love and compassion You had on the mess I made of my life. Protect me from my enemies. Protect me from outside sources that try to harm me. But most of all protect me from myself. Help me grow and learn to conduct myself in a manner that is well pleasing to You, in Jesus name, Amen!