Dec 31 2021

Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.

Each year, at least 60 percent of the population makes New Year's resolutions. The intent is to do better in certain areas in the coming year, and we make lofty and often unattainable goals. That's why research continues to show, year after year, that only about 8 percent of people accomplish even one of the resolutions they have set.

Often, we have the best intentions. We may resolve to be kinder and more giving, to get along better with people at work, or to take better care of ourselves and our families. But intentions lead nowhere if we don't put action behind them.

In Proverbs, King Solomon uses the word "diligence" to show us that for our hearts to stay right with God, we have to work at it and be diligent.

In our relationship with God, it can be far too easy to say, "I commit to praying more or studying the Bible more"—but have no actionable steps put into place to make the goal happen.

When we are diligent, we begin doing something and we stay the course. We don't quit. Being diligent is a wonderful quality in the workplace. Diligent people work hard, and they are dependable. You never have to worry if they will get the job done. Diligent people earn the reputation of seeing things through to the end.

What can we say about our walk with the Lord? Are we diligent? God can give us the strength and endurance to prosper in our relationship with Him. It's not always easy, and sometimes we may want to quit, but with God's help, we can make it for the long haul. It will speak volumes to those who know we are followers of Christ if they see us being diligent in everything we do. It reflects the heart of God, which never gives up and is always faithful.

Dear Lord, I want to be a diligent follower. Your example shows me the value of never quitting because you have never quit on me. I want to reflect a persistent attitude in my workplace, family, and relationships. I want to be dependable and trustworthy among my peers. Within myself, I often want to give up when things are hard, but with your strength and courage in my life, I can stay strong in every area. Help me to be diligent in my walk with you and help me take the commitments that I make to you and others seriously. Please give me a diligent heart, Lord. In Jesus' name, amen.

Dec 30 2021

For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. :

Forgiving others does more for us than it does for them. When we hold bitterness inside, our hearts become hardened to God's love. If we aren't in a place to give love, then we can't receive it.

Unforgiveness is an issue in the lives of believers and also those who don't know Christ. No one is exempt from the hurt that people cause each other. All of us have to choose to extend forgiveness to people when they do us wrong. It is important.

Jesus set this example for us in how He lived and interacted with others. He was ridiculed and tormented to the point of death. With His dying words, He offered forgiveness to those who had murdered Him.

In our daily lives, forgiveness means letting go of the hurt that comes when someone lies to us or offers unfair criticism. More pressing matters of the heart, like divorce or abandonment, require selfless forgiveness that pushes aside our personal feelings for the sake of being able to accept God's love freely.

Forgiving others keeps us from holding grudges and keeping track of how others have wronged us. We know that God doesn't hold our sin against us. He actually chooses to forget it. He loves us unconditionally, and we should offer that same kind of love to everyone, without any strings attached.

It can be difficult to forgive, but because of the example Jesus set for us, it is possible with His help. If there is someone we need to forgive, today would be an excellent time to reach out and offer that to them.

Dear God, you know the people in my life that have caused me the most pain. You also see the hurt that I have caused others. Please forgive me for the times I have held grudges and built walls in my relationships. You have been so gracious in extending forgiveness to me when I didn't deserve it. It is a beautiful gift. Help me to be that willing to show love and forgiveness without expecting anything in return. I know it can only be accomplished with your help, so thank you for providing everything I need to forgive and be forgiven. In Jesus' name, amen.
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