January 9 - Say it Again!

 Read today’s texts first: Genesis 23-24; Luke 9

 MAXIMize YOUR DAY

Even when you can’t bear saying or hearing the
same thing, God’s Word bears repeating!

Sometimes I’m amazed at what God chose to include in His Word.  Why inspire such a long chapter (24) on finding Isaac a wife?  What stood out to me was how Abraham’s servant repeated everything Abraham had said to him back to Rebekah’s family in minute detail.  Part of those instructions suggested that Isaac’s future wife would distinguish herself by her ready response to return with him.  This would be an unusual response.  What girl in her right mind would leave the security of her family to go to a strange land with a strange man to be married to someone she has never met.

If I were the servant, I would know from the onset that such an unnatural response would have to be inspired by God alone.  On several occasions when God has asked me to do things beyond my abilities, I have intentionally maintained a low profile so as not to interfere with His work or steal the glory when His work is done.  During the course of the college capital campaign I learned that sometimes God requires more of me.  Now that I’ve matured enough to realize that I can do nothing of eternal significance without God, I just may be ready to take a more active role in partnering with Him in the process.

I’m discovering the importance of repeating to others what God has shown me.  In the past, I used to keep these things to myself, not wanting to be a young Joseph who found himself sold into slavery by some jealous brothers.  Sometimes I get tired of listening to myself, but I’ve come to realize that if I don’t keep on telling the story, people may miss out on what God wants to do through them.  This same leadership principle applies to evangelism.  May I never tire of telling others the good news.  It’s worth saying again and again.

“Lord, today I ask for the strength and creativity to keep telling others what You are telling me.  And when I’m not supposed to talk, can You let me know, just as You did with Your disciples during uniquely sensitive times (9:21).”