Square Pegs

Hey fb and blogger friends! First I wanted to thank everyone for your prayers and concern for Nathaniel. We are still in the process of trying to get him in to see the specialist for his bowels. I will post as soon as we learn anything new. Next I want to address the issue of me not posting regularly. As much as I have tried, I just can't seem to get organized. So, for right now, my posts are just going to be random. You will have to check back everyday and see if there is something new or not. I wanted things to be more regular and sort of permanent, but it just isn't happening. Oh well, if you enjoy the devotions or know someone who might, feel free to link this to your fb page. The link is below the post and to the right. You can also share to twitter, your blog, or email a friend. Also, feel free to share this blog with anyone that you think would like to help pray for Nathaniel. Thanks guys, ya'll are awesome! Now on to the scripture! :)

John 14:23-24 Jesus replied, "If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. He who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me."

We have all heard the saying, "You can't fit a square peg in a round hole". I have been thinking about that saying alot lately. It really does fit in with the scripture above. It is very easy when someone acts in an unkind or thoughtless way toward us or our family, to become upset quickly and want to retaliate. I have faced this issue a number of times when dealing with Nathaniel and those who don't understand his needs or our decision to have him. Just like the verse above says, people who don't love the Lord won't "obey" Him. They can't!

We as Christians can't expect others to act like Christians when they aren't. We, on the other hand, should be expected to act like Christ. After all, if we truly love Him, then He has made His home with us and we should have His character. It is this Christ like character that shows others who Jesus is. Believe me, I realize that sometimes it is very difficult to act kind toward those who mistreat you. Luke 6:27&28 says "Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse, pray for those who mistreat you." It is very easy for us to be kind to those who deserve it. It is something else to be kind to those who don't. I challenge you this week to respond with kindness and the love of the Father, when someone pushes your buttons.

Lord forgive me for all the times when I have repaid anger with anger. Help me God to realize that I am the tool in your hands. You are the Master Craftsman. My behavior draws people to You and then You change them from the inside out. When someone consistently acts like they aren't a lover of Christ, it is probably because they aren't. Please help me to remember this and use me to show them who You really are. Help me to show others Your love, even when it is hard. Give me strength and wisdom in each situation. I love You Jesus!