Daily Reading // Genesis 36-39
(Find the daily reading on Pastor Jim’s Blog)
https://jholm5.wixsite.com/pastor-jim-blog
S // SCRIPTURE
Select a verse from today’s reading
Genesis 37:22 (NKJV) And Reuben said to them, “Shed no blood, [but] cast him into this pit which [is] in the wilderness, and do not lay a hand on him”--that he might deliver him out of their hands, and bring him back to his father.
Genesis 37:29 (NKJV) Then Reuben returned to the pit, and indeed Joseph [was] not in the pit; and he tore his clothes.
O // OBSERVATION
Why did this verse get your attention? Make a simple observation from the text
Reuben intended to trick the trickers. He was going to cheat the cheaters. He tried to double cross the double crossers. But it didn’t work.
A // APPLICATION
How can I apply this to my life today?
You can’t beat evildoers at their own game.
We are not called to be as tricky and ruthless as the world to gain the upper hand from them. Jesus said to do just the opposite.
Love those who hate you. Return hatred and hostility with love and kindness.
It is so easy to get sucked into a battle mindset and forget to turn the other cheek. When I engage in the battle I’ve lost already.
It is more true today than ever. Don’t play their game. Their rules are rigged. It’s a no-win game.
P // PRAYER
Express yourself in prayer
Jesus, I need Your wisdom and grace to navigate life. Give me an abundance of love and life for a world bent on destruction. Amen.