Friday, August 10, 2018

       Because I believe that a few of you or more can relate to the topic I’m writing about today, I am sharing an amplified version of the devotional I wrote for our church bulletin last Sunday. Here it is: [Many years ago, one of my co-workers in the post office asked me to reserve for him all the leftover supply of sample cartons of cigarettes which could not be delivered. He added: “remember that I’m your friend.” I responded, “Because I am your friend, I can’t do that.” I added: “Can you imagine me standing by your bed when you’re  dying of lung cancer knowing that I helped put you in that situation?” 

       All of us want the best for our friends and especially our family. Even so, if we are careless, there are times when we can do more harm than good when we do things they want. Parents face that situation often. Because they want to give their children what they ask for, they often wind up hurting instead of helping them. Even as I am re-writing last Sunday’s devotional, I suspect that some of you have crossed the line that separates right from wrong, wise from foolish. And please don’t think that I haven’t made those mistakes myself.

        Proverbs 27:6 says: “Faithful are the wounds of a friend, But the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.” Yes, there may be times when people we love will be angry or upset with us but whether parent or friend, those who are wise will ask God for the courage and the grace to say “no” whenever it is necessary. If you are facing that type of situation today, I pray you will do the same. ]  

God’s word for today (Proverbs 20:7 NIRV) “Those who do what is right live without blame. Blessed are their children after them.”