Scripture: Philippians 2:3-5
Don’t do anything for selfish purposes, but with humility think of others as better than yourselves. Instead of each person watching out for their own good, watch out for what is better for others. Adopt the attitude that was in Christ Jesus…
Thought for the Day: It’s funny, one of the regular readers of my devotional asked me yesterday if today’s devotional was going to be on forgiveness. I didn’t think I had choreographed my plan, but I guess I had. Yesterday, I talked about trust in regard to other drivers, and the frustration I felt toward the person who cut me off in traffic. Recently, I have become very aware of people’s body language while driving. We have all seen the over the top gestures that one driver gives to another. And no, I’m not talking about a certain finger. I’m talking arms in the air or hitting oneself on the forehead in disbelief or shaking one’s head back and forth to make sure another driver 40 feet away can see. A few weeks ago, I made a commitment to myself to no longer shake my head or raise my arms or even give a heavy sigh of disgust. I had been doing pretty well until that car cut me off the other day, and of course, my son noticed my frustration toward the driver. Not a good example! I Forgiveness is easier if we are more disciplined in our initial response to someone else’s mistake, failure or outright sin. If I have kept my emotions (and blood pressure) in check, then it will probably be easier to move to a place where I can forgive. We are called upon to bring the attitude of Christ more fully into our lives, and it requires discipline in advance of the difficult moments. Let’s work intently today on making ourselves a bit more ready to forgive when forgiveness is required.
Prayer: You have provided me the example of Jesus, but Lord, I need more encouragement as I strive to be like him. Allow your Spirit to be my encourager this day. Amen.
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