Feb 20 2022

Lord, make me to know mine end, and the measure of my days, what it is: that I may know how frail I am.

Many people today have schedules that are so packed there is little or no time left over for rest. Some may think of their busyness as a badge of honor or a sign of how successful they are. But the truth is, running ourselves ragged day after day leads to exhaustion and has the potential to steal our joy.

When we're aware that our days are short, meaning our life on Earth isn't long, it helps us focus on the things that bring true happiness. In the end, all that matters is our relationship with God, and our family and dear friends.

We need God's help to focus on what truly matters. When we feel the seemingly never-ending demands of life, we can ask God to guide us in deciding where our attention should be focused. Only those things that are done for the Lord will last into eternity. Nothing else matters.

Our days are short, so it's vital that we spend our time, talent, and resources on the most important things in life. When we lose our focus, we go to God in prayer. He will provide all the clarity we need to know what's important.

Dear Lord, please help me fight my way through busyness. When I am overwhelmed by a full schedule, I know that you can help me discern what's important and deserves my attention. Help me view my schedule in light of eternity. Focus my heart and mind on what you want me to do, rather than on everything I think I should do. In Jesus' name, amen.

Feb 19 2022

He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life: but he that openeth wide his lips shall have destruction. :

The phrase "loose lips sink ships" became popular in the 1940s. During World War II, enemy spies took advantage of a soldier family's eagerness to proudly share the accomplishments of their son, husband, or father. These spies would become friends of the family, hoping to gain information by listening and taking note of what soldiers shared in their letters.

Although family members had no idea of what was taking place, many passed along information with details of secret missions. As a result, soldiers and sailors lost their lives.

How often do we cause trouble because of things we say? Sometimes we share secrets or gossip about others, say things we really don't mean, or use destructive speech to tear people down.

This afternoon's verse emphasizes that if we can rule our mouths, we can rule our lives. The problem is, we can't control our mouths without God's help, and we must be willing to give Him control of our speech.

Our words can help or hurt us and they can help or hurt other people as well. As the Proverb says, if we are loose with our speech, we will bring destruction. We need God's help to make us aware of what we say and be accountable for it.

God, I am so sorry for the times when I have had loose lips. When I speak without thinking, my words can cause pain and destruction. Remind me to allow you to guide my words every single day. Please be gracious to me and spare me the consequences of the bad things I have said in the past. I understand that once a word has left my mouth, I can't take it back. Let me release words that always glorify you. In Jesus' name, amen.


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