Day 2

Let me start off by saying that God has really humbled me this week and I am grateful for that. I tend to get arrogant sometimes and he brought me back down and is beginning to work in me as I begin to open up more to him. Things are definitely going to change for me.

As I prepared to read today, i prayed that these readings would be inspired by him and I would know when I found what was needed for me today. I want to be used as a servant and what I came across today is the best way for me to start to learn to do that.

I read 1st Chronicles 10-20 titled "David's Prayer"

The first part explains how David in the presence of the assembly praises the Lord and gives him all he is due. He speaks of the greatness of the Lord, how is he King over all, and how everything comes from him. David goes on to say how they have given generously but only what has come from God. Everything has been given willingly and God is pleased with integrity because he tests the heart. It is David's desire for the people to keep their hearts loyal to God and for Solomon to build the structure for what David has provided. Then they all praised God.

I think that the Author (Ezra) is trying to show how David believes that it is only possible to give back to God because he blesses us. However one's heart determines how God accepts the offering. We deserve nothing, but God loves us and provides for us. We must remember though that it is NOT ours, it is ONLY God's, even if it is given to us. The least we can do is glorify and bless his name for what he has done for us even though he deserves so much more. Do not feel obligated, but make sure that your heart is in it when you are giving your all to God, he is not looking for half-hearted praise. This applies to all aspects of life, when your friends need someone there for them, do not just ask how they are doing because you feel obligated and then move on. Take time to listen and really be a FRIEND. I understand that you can only do so much for a person and that they may shut you out, but at least try to be there for them; if you really think about it, is that not what God does for us? He tries to be there for us, but sometimes we just push him away and do not open up. When you come running back to him, he accepts you and you should do the same if your friend comes back. 

David talks about integrity and how people's hearts are, so here is something for you to think about. Once again it is a side note out of my bible, but it speaks volumes to me. It is titled "Maintaining Your Integrity". "Your reputation hinges on the things you do when people are watching. But your integrity is built AND destroyed by the things you do when no one's around. While a good reputation is valuable, integrity is priceless. David knew how important integrity is to God. He also knew that a person's integrity is tested every day. What kinds of things have tested yours? The websites you visit when you're alone at the computer? The music you listen to? The TV shows you watch? The way you use your money? What choices do you need to make in order to honor God with integrity? 

I am guilty of this, my integrity is at a rather low level and I know that is a problem for me. I always tell people that true integrity is what you do when no one is watching, but I have not been living it. It is one of the hardest things for me to do in my Christian walk. It's never easy to be alone as a believer, but we have to remember that God is ALWAYS with us and is there for us. I must grow and become strong when I am alone in order to let my reputation fall when I am with others. If I am proud of my reputation as a Christian and I fail with integrity, then I never get anywhere. Instead, I am just playing the role of an Open Christian who is only good when no one is watching.

I hope you consider this and think about how this applies to you and use it in the most effective way possible. Please pray for me this weekend, I have two baseball games tomorrow and am considering some stuff in the next week that I will be discussing with my Brother when he comes into town. I also have a friend who's mom had surgery yesterday so pray for that as well. 

I hope you have an awesome day!

Joseph Robinson