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“"The Influence of His Will or Ours?"”

Thoughts for Today:

In our passage today, Paul is saying, "Because you've questioned my authority as an Apostle, let me do a little boasting." He then goes on, "But please don't blame the Lord for what I'm about to say." I like his approach -- I find it refreshing. All too often the Lord is blamed for the erratic behavior of those who profess to serve Him. I think we could all agree that many times the way some people conduct themselves in the Name of Christ is an embarrassment to Christianity in general.

I think Paul's example is a good one for all of us to keep in view. How so? By being aware and even confessing when we too are stepping outside the way the Lord would have us behave. Sometimes an over-abundance of enthusiasm, guilt, pride or some other human frailty will have us doing things that might bring a flush of embarrassment to the Lord's cheeks. So how do we correct our missteps? By first taking responsibility for our work versus the Lord's. It is the mature Christian who can look at a past (or present) situation and realize the influence of their personal will rather than His.

Questions to Ponder:

Paul knew boasting was not the nature or way of the Lord. How did he know? Because of his familiarity with Jesus. Take a look at your recent behavior. Is it consistent with the teaching of Scripture or does it need a little work? Are the words flowing from your mouth praiseworthy or an embarrassment? How can you allow Jesus to become more fully expressed in your life?

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About the author

Pocket Devotions are written by Mike Brooks. A retired businessman, he is Moderator of South Shores church, leads the Deacon Board, serves on the finance committee, and he teaches a Men's Bible study and the Men's Ministry. Mike has a passion for evangelical missions. He is the husband of Sherry; the father of Ryan, Natalie, Krissy, Rebecca, and Amanda; the father-in-law of Ariel; and the grandfather of Conner and Christian.