2Kings 6; 1Tim. 3; Dan. 10; Ps.119:1-24

I am writing you these instructions so that,  if I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God’s household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth. 1 Tim. 3: 14b – 15

I think it is absolutely amazing that God speaks in that still, small voice about the very things you need to hear exactly when you need to hear them.  Instruction has been the theme these last several days. Not just in this passage from 1 Timothy, and in Ps. 119, but all around me.  The message this weekend in chruch was full of instruction as we worked through 1 Cor. 13: 4 – 7 – what love looks like. It came at a time for me when I really needed to hear it.  As our pastor put it when he began to teach this weekend, we’ve all heard “the love chapter” and because of it’s popularity, most of us likely don’t really “hear” it.  And he of course proceeded to teach us what the words really mean.  They truly humbled me.

This weekend I failed miserably on the love front.  I got what I thought was justifiably angry – but love is not easily angered. I thought my actions and words were justified. I thought I was being wronged – but love keeps no record of wrongs.  I lost my patience and was mean to a some people very dear to me – but love is patient, love is kind. On Saturday I approached a service opportunity “puffed up” because I was being asked to take on a special project – but love does not boast, it is not proud. I failed miserably.

I write this with tears in my eyes, not because I am feeling guilty for failing – I made amends with those involved – but because even though I failed, I know He will never fail me.  God is Love – and Love “ALWAYS protects, ALWAYS trusts, ALWAYS hopes, ALWAYS preservers.” 1 Cor 13: 7 (emphasis added).

O  Great Instructor! Thank you for ALWAYS teaching me what I need to know when I need to know it.  Thank you for giving me a heart to hear Your still, small voice. “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” Ps. 119:11 AMEN

Jim(jmitch1)

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