DECEMBER 31, Judges 8:32-35

Gideon lived a long life. But as soon as he died, the children of Israel fell into the sin of idolatry again, worshipping Baal. So quickly had they forgotten how God had delivered them from the Midianites. Are you surprised? Actually, we are not that different in being forgetful of God’s grace to us. Today is the last day of the year. How has God blessed you this year? Has God not been merciful and patient with you? Have you been patient with others? Let’s just focus on this one aspect – that of patience. Often, families dine out at restaurants to celebrate the New Year. Imagine the scene below:

Everyone has placed their orders for drinks and you have requested for an iced lemon tea. Ten minutes passed but none of the drinks were served. Ten minutes later, everybody else’s drinks came except yours. Knowing you are easily thirsty, Dad caught the attention of a waiter and reminded him of your order. The waiter scurried away. The clock continued to tick on. Still no lemon tea at your table! A thirsty man is an angry man. But, bursting into a temper would not speak well for you as a Christian. What then can you do so that you will not sin?

First, remember you are in spiritual warfare all the time. So, pray to our Father in heaven for power to resist sin. Next, remember what the Bible teaches about love, patience and kindness and a good testimony. Thirdly, consider the feelings of your loved ones around you. Don’t murmur and complain or make a scene. Believe me; before you finish doing these 3 steps, your tea should have arrived. Even if it does not, you could simply ask to share either mum’s or dad’s or a sibling’s if you were desperate!

We will not grow in grace if we do not apply the biblical truths that we have studied and understood. It would be like salivating at the feast spread before you and not putting the food into your mouth. Very often, we face situations like this restaurant scene. It is so easy to forget God when we are not with Christians in church. But Jesus was patient and kind with the humble, weak and needy everywhere He went. So, let us resolve to follow Christ in the brand new year ahead. Never forget that He is with us always.

Thought: May I be patient and kind with everyone I meet anywhere.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to always remember Thy goodness and grace towards me. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.