Monday, May 29, 2000

VERSE:

Peter and the other apostles replied: "We must obey God rather than men!"

-- Acts 5:29

http://bible.gospelcom.net/bible?Acts+5:29

THOUGHT:

"I live by certain principles that help me live the life I need to live." You have no doubt, heard that statement before. Then when it comes to attitudes and practices at work, we can live and act in a way that is going to be the best for our situation. Even as I was working toward a degree in business, I found it easy to live with a mentality that called for watching one's own back and stepping on or over people to make it to the top.

Please, Hear the Good News, Jesus calls us to listen to The Father. Unfortunately we can get caught in the mob rules mentality at work and in life. When looking at "principles" and "business practices" we are forced to try and reconcile the differing attitudes of our faith and what is happening around us. But my question or comment is this, aren't "principles" and "business practices" what people have instead of God? As God calls to you and I, His message is quite clear. "Love Me, and love those whom I have created. Look after those whom I have entrusted in your care." While this may be in conflict with society, God will remain faithful to you, not because you have earned it, but because God is God.

Jesus, He did not forgive those who crucified Him or called for His crucifixion because they earned it, but He did so because in some unimaginable way, He loved them too.

PRAYER:

Gracious Father, strengthen me to live by You rather than principle. Create in ma heart that is strong and willing to do your bidding. Help me to love. Help me to forgive. Help me to share. Forgive my principles and business practices, focusing me on Jesus and Your love instead. Finally, help me to care for those whom You have entrusted to me. Thanks You for all You have done and all You will continue to do and come to You through Jesus name. Amen.