February 7

Matthew 12:33-42 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:

Journal Entry

Scripture

Matt 12:35 The good person out of his good treasure brings forth good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure brings forth evil. 36I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, 37for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned."

Observation

This is a familiar passage about how a tree is known by its fruit. What struck me today was the veracity that Jesus states about the day of judgement. He says we must, all must, give account for every careless word we speak. Wow. Jesus doesn't mince words here. I can see how my words flow my the treasure in my heart. My words are the fruit of my life. And the fruit of my life is tied to the quality of connection I have with the living Spirit of God that resides within me, within all of us children of God.

I noticed that the men of Nineveh will rise up and condemn "this generation" because they repented. They responded to God's prophet to change the way they lived.

Application

I am challenged and encouraged to observe my careless words and watch my heart. For I will have to give an account to our Father for all my careless words. There is some obvious gravitas to Jesus' words here, but more than feeling heavy, I'm feeling the encouragement to observe my heart and words. I believe the reason I feel encouraged is because I sense in my soul that the power of God that is flowing in me is not from myself but from the great gift Jesus died to give us - his Holy Spirit.

Prayer

Loving and power giving God, thank you for such clarity on my life and behavior. I can see the goodness in your will and sense your power flowing through me to carry out your will. Increase my faith that believes it is you living in me. Help me to surrender on a moment by moment basis to the flow of your Spirit. Help me to change my mind and repent when I avoid doing your will. And, definitely help me to see that you are good and your will is the ultimate good in my life. Thank you for a wonderful community we are able to celebrate marriages & families. And, thank you that we, as the body of Christ, are a welcoming family of all people who are seeking you. Thank you for seeking me (us) first. We love you because you love us.

--John Loppnow