Charles Stanley...Daily devotion

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March 26, 2021
When Human Strength Fails


2 Samuel 11

In 1 Corinthians 10:13, Paul says that God provides us an escape route whenever we are tempted. But what happens when we refuse to take the help and instead implement our own ideas? Eventually, our human strength fails, and we give in to temptation. So it was with King David. He’d experienced the Lord’s rescue countless times, but he still allowed temptation to fill his mind and dictate his actions. And it came with consequences.

In today’s passage, we see that David took some time off and stayed at the palace, which probably appeared harmless enough—one of the perks of being king. And requesting Bathsheba’s presence must have seemed like a pathway to pleasure. But these choices led to the murder of Bathsheba’s husband and set in motion a cover-up. Ultimately, the Lord demanded an accounting.

Like David, we may consider the company we keep, places we go, and choices we make as relatively harmless. But later, after we’ve succumbed to temptation, we’re filled with regret.

Fortunately, that is not the end of the story for the king or for us. David’s heartfelt repentance was accepted by God, and if we confess, ours will be, too (1 John 1:9). Ask the Lord today for discernment to recognize the temptations in front of you and the strength to take His way of escape.

 

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March 27, 2021
Our Standard of Measure


Luke 6:30-38

Imagine you have a bucket, and all the “supplies” inside are for your interactions with people. What’s in your bucket?

Jesus points out a number of things that we can choose to pour out on others—material possessions, love, good deeds, money, mercy, and pardon. It’s an impressive list. And yet He also challenges us to love our enemies, do good to those who mistreat us, give to “takers,” lend without expecting anything in return, and grant mercy to those who don’t deserve it. Why would He call us to this? Because as God’s children, we’re expected to treat others the way He treats them—“for He Himself is kind to ungrateful and evil people” (Luke 6:35).

The second thing to consider is the size of our bucket. Jesus says that by our standard of measure, it will be measured back to us (Luke 6:38). However, we are also told to expect nothing in return from those we treat with kindness (v. 35). The ultimate reward for our loving and gracious behavior will come, not from them but from God.

What are you pouring onto others? By showering them with grace, you display the character of your Father. Use a bucket full of love and kindness, and you’ll discover that the Lord uses an even bigger bucket to lavish His goodness upon you.

 

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March 27, 2021
Our Standard of Measure


Luke 6:30-38

Imagine you have a bucket, and all the “supplies” inside are for your interactions with people. What’s in your bucket?

Jesus points out a number of things that we can choose to pour out on others—material possessions, love, good deeds, money, mercy, and pardon. It’s an impressive list. And yet He also challenges us to love our enemies, do good to those who mistreat us, give to “takers,” lend without expecting anything in return, and grant mercy to those who don’t deserve it. Why would He call us to this? Because as God’s children, we’re expected to treat others the way He treats them—“for He Himself is kind to ungrateful and evil people” (Luke 6:35).

The second thing to consider is the size of our bucket. Jesus says that by our standard of measure, it will be measured back to us (Luke 6:38). However, we are also told to expect nothing in return from those we treat with kindness (v. 35). The ultimate reward for our loving and gracious behavior will come, not from them but from God.

What are you pouring onto others? By showering them with grace, you display the character of your Father. Use a bucket full of love and kindness, and you’ll discover that the Lord uses an even bigger bucket to lavish His goodness upon you.

 

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Why don't you start your own thread? You like to mess with others topics? That sounds pretty self centered to me. Charles Stanley has so much more to say. His message today was all about serving others. Maybe you should read it.
One more disruption of this thread by you I will report you! In the mean time take them down or I will report you anyway.