Reluctant Retiree

Every family has its share of problems, although, admittedly, some families more than others. Competing needs and desires cause separation if not handled properly. While the disagreements will come, if we consistently bring troubles to our families, God promises to give us a strong rebuke.

Proverbs 11:29 says, “Whoever troubles his own household will inherit the wind, and the fool will be servant to the wise of heart.” Do your best to bless your family and not cause trouble. Then you will find blessings from God and favor among all people. As much as is possible, be a peacemaker and not a troublemaker.

We are familiar with the concept that if we work at a task or to achieve something, we will be rewarded. The star athlete works long and hard to develop skills and receive medals, professional status, and the accompanying fame and financial benefits. The artist practices their craft to develop and present a wonderful artistic endeavor. At our jobs, we work hard to receive the promised wages and promotions.

Proverbs 11:18 says, “The wicked earns deceptive wages, but one who sows righteousness gets a sure reward.” Doing some evil or wrong thing may seem to offer something beneficial, but it is a lie and of no value. Evil promises what it cannot deliver. Only doing righteous things produces real and lasting benefits and rewards. Doing righteousness is not a matter of hard work. Rather it is achieved through following the Savior through the strength that He provides.

We have all felt small and insignificant at times. Perhaps it was after we tried to do something and failed. Maybe this feeling came after a public humiliation. Or perhaps, we were humbled by the criticism of others. Regardless, we have succumbed to the notion that other people think we are useless, powerless, and ineffective.

Luke 1:46-48 says, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name.” When you think that you are small or insignificant, remember that God’s is looking upon you and doing great things for you, so that you are called blessed. You are worthy of God’s attention and His powerful works on your behalf. He loves you and wants to be in your presence. Allow Him to come in today!

Jesus didn’t claim to be a good teacher. He didn’t claim to simply live a model life. He is not someone for whom it is required to just follow His lifestyle or teaching.

Mark 14:61-62 says, “Again the high priest asked him, ‘Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?’ And Jesus said, ‘I am, and you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven.'” Jesus claimed to be the Christ and Son of God. We must accept that truth and live accordingly or reject Him. One day we will all see Him coming in the clouds and seated at the right hand of the Father. We must worship Him as the God He is and surrender ourselves to His will.

God gives His children the gift of prayer. He invites us into His presence and tells us to give Him our requests. Furthermore, Jesus goes before us into the presence of the Father and is our High Priest. Jesus intercedes for us with our requests and He advocates for us when we confess our sins. In addition, the Father has given to us the Holy Spirit to intercede with words we cannot utter. Prayer is a gift from the Father and we are told to pray unceasingly.

Before going to the cross, Jesus prayed, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for you. Remove this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.” Mark 14:36 When going through difficulties, it is good to ask for God’s help. But always be open to following God’s will no matter what happens, because that will turn out for the best. God is good and He is able to answer our prayers. Take advantage of the gift of prayer.