November 1, 2026

Words

I love words.  They have power.  They’re specific.  If we think them through and choose them carefully, we should always be able to communicate successfully.  When we seek to be obedient, even when we’re going through challenges, we develop friendship with God, a friendship that thrives in all circumstances.  The Apostle Paul said, “I have faced danger in the cities, in the deserts, and on the seas. And I have faced danger from men who claim to be believers but are not.[c] 27 I have worked hard and long, enduring many sleepless nights. I have been hungry and thirsty and have often gone without food. I have shivered in the cold,  without enough clothing to keep me warm. 2 Corinthians 11:26-27

Paul understood his source relied on complete trust in God. He was content no matter what conditions he faced.  In the process of learning to ask for help we discover God’s love and mercy.  We can use that wisdom to lead others through their own struggles

Trials prepare us to be harvest warriors.  Many people feel divorce or addiction, alcohol, cigarettes and even tattoos, make them unacceptable in God’s Kingdom.  Our God is a God of love.  He wants us to succeed.  He loves to give us second chances.  He even lets us read to the end of the Blook so we can see how this will all conclude.  Our job is to organize the things we’ve learned, recognize the value in challenges, and come up with witty ways to reach others who might think their mistakes have stolen their destinies.   

The culture was different at the time Jesus walked the earth.  We have no idea why tattoos were mentioned.  Perhaps they didn’t sterilize.  Maybe inks were toxic in those days.  I read a Bible Study this week which was harsh and dismissive of people with tattoos.  

Praise God for His grace in sending Jesus. The Old Testament law made entering Heaven close to impossible. Jesus, dying on the cross for our sins, released us from the old laws. We must still adhere to the Ten Commandments but when we fail, God has provided restoration. Listen to the Holy Spirit and stay armed by the Word of God.

Dear Lord, I get confused when I focus too closely on words.  In my lifetime I have seen a few words change meaning dramatically.  Trying to apply modern meaning to rules that were different 2000 years ago, is a daunting task.  Just as we must come to You when we pray about adding or subtracting things from our lives, help us understand You’re still here, watching us, and You’ll make certain we get clarity on our questions.  Help me refuse to get caught up in a war with words, skirting righteousness so I can embrace familiar dogma. 

Get wisdom; develop good judgment. Don’t forget my words or turn away from them. Proverbs 4:5