Many of us have read the story of Abraham in the sacrifice of his only son Issac. If you haven’t read it, stop here and go read Genesis 22: 1-14 and then come back to read this story.

What obedience it must have taken to even think of sacrificing Issac since it took an act of God to have him in the first place. The resolve to pack the donkey, and start walking toward the destination of where God would ultimately intervene. While this whole story is gripping, the verse that caught my attention was verse 5. There you see the faith of a man that trusts God will provide.

Matthew 16: 13-20 — Focus Verse – “He said to them, ‘But who do you say that I am?'”

I was on a flight back from New Orleans listening to Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis and heard the famous trilemma of Christ (choice between three alternatives)…

Colossians 3:8 — “But now you also, put them all aside: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and abusive speech from your mouth.”

For about five weeks now, I have been having a pity party. It hasn’t been one that people can notice, but in my heart, I have been whining like a two-year-old. My lip is sticking out, and I have been pouting. But at the same time, I have been blessed! Ever been there?

God who delivered David from a bear, a lion and Goliath in 1 Samuel 17:37 has also delivered me from the dirt and more turmoil in life called busyness, greed, and selfishness.  God’s role is evident in your life and mine.

I was seeking happiness and joy in all the wrong places.  I sadly felt busyness was associated with success, and I wanted everyone to see I was busy. I found approval through admiration and joy through the next best gadget.

Does how we speak matter? The scriptures are clear.

Ephesians 4:29 — “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.”

Today’s lesson is about the tearing down and building up of others. 

Men, have you lost direction? Have you lost your passion or zeal? Are you confused and don’t know what to do? Do you feel like you are stuck? Do you want to change? 

I can relate.