A weekday morning devotional series written by Aaron Marcarelli and hosted by Chad McBeam
“But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peace-loving, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial, free of hypocrisy.”
James 3:17 NASB2020
The NIV uses the word considerate rather than reasonable. Both are good. In order to be considerate and reasonable we must always put the needs of others first. This is what Jesus meant when he gave us the two greatest commandments. “Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
Matthew 22:37-40 NIV
If we truly want to be followers of Christ and be considerate and reasonable we must begin with the greatest commandments.
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been blessed or have gotten to share the word of God with people because I’ve let others go in front of me in line, commented on what they were wearing or just said hi with a smile! I don’t always. This morning in the TSA line I begrudgingly let someone in front of me. I did not even look at them, I just said “Go ahead.” I missed a chance to be a blessing or to be blessed by others.
Maybe that’s because I did not put God first this morning. I decided to wait until I got on the plane to spend time with God and do this devotional.
The only way we can abide by the Holy Spirit and be considerate and reasonable is to be purposeful about our time with Christ giving Him our first fruits always.
Dear Lord, you are awesome and amazing. Thank you for your forgiveness. Help us to be better at following you, putting you first and thus being considerate and reasonable. We pray these things In Jesus Name Amen…
Shalom, Sholom, Blessings! Press In and Press On!