Why Didn’t I Think of That?

If every good thought comes from above, then we didn’t think of something before because God did not give it to us then. “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning” (James 1:17 KJV). Ownership of our thoughts means we take responsibility for our thinking, but that doesn’t mean we originate the thought. Some people do not like to use commentaries to gain better understanding of Scripture because they do not want the contamination of man’s thoughts. If that were so, then we shouldn’t listen to someone’s preaching or teaching for fear of agreeing with someone else’s thoughts. “There is no new thing under the sun” (Ecclesiastes 1:9). That is not a vain thought, since every good thought first proceeds from the mind of God. Spirit of God, cause me to be open to Your directions. May I not be surprised or offended by the ease which Your people may accept Your leading. May I be more open to think Your thoughts, so I can be just as led by You as Philip, when You directed him toward Gaza on the way to Egypt for his encounter with the Ethiopian eunuch. Make me readily acceptable to Your thoughts. In Jesus’ name, amen.

What God Requires of Us

Just because you can do something, doesn’t necessarily mean you should do it. You might have the disposable income to afford a new smartphone, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you should purchase one. Impulse purchasing is why manufacturers compete for space next to the cash register at the supermarket, hoping you’ll do something simply because you can. But, if you actually need a smartphone, should you purchase the least expensive? “For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required” (Luke 12:48 KJV). If God has not given you other necessities demanding your resources, then the smartphone that fulfills your legitimate needs, represents the one God would have you purchase. Spirit filled action is Scripture justified action, and it flows from the heart attitude, “Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?” (Acts 9:6), in expectation of the necessary guidance, “This is the way, walk ye in it” (Isaiah 30:21). LORD, may our daily walk with You always be in light of Your Word, but acutely sensitive to the choosing of Your Spirit. May we develop a sensitivity to Spirit filled direction that answers not simply what You require of us, but how we can best serve You. In Jesus’ name, we pray it. And, do return quickly. Amen.