1 Chronicles 19:10-13 – “David praised the Lord before the entire assembly:  “O Lord God of our father Israel, you deserve praise forevermore! ¹¹ O Lord, you are great, mighty, majestic, magnificent, glorious, and sovereign over all the sky and earth! You, Lord, have dominion and exalt yourself as the ruler of all. ¹² You are the source of wealth and honor; you rule over all. You possess strength and might to magnify and give strength to all. ¹³ Now, our God, we give thanks to you and praise your majestic name!”

The purposes and provisions of the LORD led to a new way of living that is totally dependent on God.  No lack even when there is an empty sack. That is my prayer for each one today.

As I read, prayed, and mused on the Word of God today, David’s instructions to Solomon captured my thoughts.  In 1 Chronicles 28:9, David instructed Solomon to serve God with a perfect heart and a willing mind.  The first is not possible without the second, and the second is attained through the first. Almost the chicken and egg scenario.

In 1 Chronicles 29:12, 17, we see that everything comes from God and that God tests our hearts and motives.  Obedience and righteousness open the door to that new way of lackless living.  That view of God as all-knowing, all-powerful, and ever-present brought me to the strength of His grace in 2 Thessalonians 3:3, His faithfulness in guidance and protection.

Perfect hearts and willing minds think His thoughts and desire His desires.

We give the devil an opportunity and an advantage if we are disobedient. We open the door to the devil and close the door to blessing if we walk in disobedience and tolerate disobedience in the church.

2 Thessalonians 3:6 is not for pharisaical regulations; it is for preservation of purity and restoration.  Shunning a‘brother’ seems harsh, but tough love usually seems that way.  In 1 Thessalonians 3:13, we are told not to be weary in well doing.  That statement was given in the midst of shunning and marking the ‘brother’ who lives carnally in disobedience to God’s commandments. Verse 15 is the key.  Do not treat them as enemies.  That’s what some do.  They identify the error and seek to destroy the errant person rather than being heartbroken for them.  Consider ourselves lest we be tempted.

If we treated others as Jesus treats us, we would always seek to restore. We would be gracious and out of love, seeking to correct. We would demonstrate perfect hearts and willing minds.

I say, “Love me and love God enough to correct me with the desire to heal and restore me. But don’t make me your enemy, for even if I err, my heart is to know the truth and serve God fully.”

The blessings of God are upon tested hearts.  Be zealous for God and love others.  Don’t be a harsh, judgmental Pharisee.  Mercy begets mercy!

Have a great day, and keep looking up, for our redemption is almost upon us!