Daily Devotionals
Daily Devotional: Proverbs 28:11-16
Prov 28:11-16
11 A rich man is wise in his own eyes, but a poor man who has understanding will find him out. 12 When the righteous triumph, there is great glory, but when the wicked rise, people hide themselves. 13 Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy. 14 Blessed is the one who fears the Lord always, but whoever hardens his heart will fall into calamity. 15 Like a roaring lion or a charging bear is a wicked ruler over a poor people. 16 A ruler who lacks understanding is a cruel oppressor, but he who hates unjust gain will prolong his days.
Matt 5:8-9
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
Luke 12:1b-2
Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. Nothing is covered up that will not be revealed or hidden that will not be known.
When people gain education, wealth, social status, power or anything else that is seen as making them better or above those around them, there is a tendency to become proud and to think that the “rules” do not apply to them. Because of “who they are” they have special privileges. With this comes an attitude of disdain toward those who are below them in their minds.
God is no respecter of persons. God made all of us equal, each unique and special in his sight. The same kind of life pleases God among those who are “high and mighty” as it does among those who are poor, down and out, or the outcast of society. God loves the homeless person, and they are just as important, as the wealthy person living in a mansion on a hill. The same principles of righteousness apply to both equally. The same morality fits us all. The same honesty is required. Humility is extolled by God, but pride is an abomination to him – even if it is the “leader” of the homeless camp or the leader of a great nation. God knows and he sees who we really are. He alone is the final judge, and he will judge us all.
O Holy God, giver of life, creator of all things, I come to you today with a humble heart, knowing that I do not deserve to even talk to you on my own. Thank you for giving your Son to live and die for me and to take away my sin. Thank you for opening the way to you and your throne of grace in him and by his name. Please provide rain at the appropriate time to those in Africa who have suffered draught in recent years. Give them crops to provide food for their families. Use those of us who have plenty to help those in need. Give strength to those who are being persecuted for their faith in Jesus. I humbly pray in his Holy name.
Robert
