Today´s reading:
OT: Deuteronomy 26, Deuteronomy 27
NT: Luke 10:38-42, Luke 11:1-13
Ps: Psalm 76
Pr: Proverbs 12:15-17
Today´s notable verse:
A fool shows his annoyance at once,
but a prudent man overlooks an insult.Proverbs 12:16 (NIV)
I think the prudence of overlooking an insult rather than making known our annoyance of that insult benefits us both externally, with respect to our reputation, and also internally, since vocalizing our annoyance acts to cement a root of bitterness or unforgiveness for that insult. To overlook an insult demonstrates humility, since we recognize that we ourselves have likewise insulted others, and it demonstrates our obedience to God's command to love those who persecute us and our recognition of God's sovereignity and rightful place to avenge.
The One Year Bible Blog asks:
Today in Luke chapter 10 we read about Jesus visiting Mary & Martha and Martha becoming upset with Mary for sitting at Jesus' feet and not helping her work in the kitchen. To which Jesus says to Martha in verses 41 & 42 - "But the Lord said to her, "My dear Martha, you are so upset over all these details! There is really only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it--and I won't take it away from her." What do you think is the one thing worth being concerned about Jesus is referring to? Is this really the only one thing you are concerned about in your life today? Or are you possibly being distracted by other "details"?
It appears to me that Mary's one concern was her desire for closeness and intimacy with the Messiah, to have relationship and fellowship with Him, and to listen to His words. I think my perspective in this regard has improved as I have grown older and matured in my walk, but certainly, I still get detracted at times by the "details" - whether "spiritual" details of my calling, service, church life and activities, etc. or else "worldly" details about my job and finances and everything else. However, the more time I spend in the Word, the more I am reminded of this primary concern of my relationship and intimacy with my Savior.
