Daily Devotional
Do You Love or Lecture?
“But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Romans 5:8
February 17, 2024
Ponder This
Many of you would say, “Pastor, my heart is breaking because my son, my daughter, may not be a fool, but my son, my daughter, is a smart aleck. What do you do with a child like that?” Well, first of all, remember that scolding and lecturing a scorner does very little good. If you think you can sit down your know-it-all child and preach to him, you’ve got another thought coming. You’re not going to be able to drill it into his head. Scolding is going to do little good. As a matter of fact, it’ll probably increase his ability to sin. You need to talk less and pray more. And love that scorner more, then wait for the open door. Not the rebuke, but the open door.
When you’ve got a rebellious teenager, you surround that child with your love. Let her know where you stand on these issues, but don’t constantly be against her. Do not constantly be rebuking her, but be loving, praying, and waiting. Asking, “Oh, God, help me to speak a word in due season.” And as you pray, God will work according to His will and ways.
- When have you been tempted to lecture instead of love?
- When has an act of love by another impacted you?
Practice This
Pray for someone you know to grow in love for the Lord.
For Your Gift to the Ministry
What Happens When We Pray?
Discover the power and purpose of prayer through this Write the Word Scripture Journal. You'll discover that faithful prayer is impactful because God hears the prayers of His people and keeps His promises to those who call on His name. With space for personal reflections, prayers, and insights, this journal focuses on how prayer transforms your heart, deepens your faith, and invites God’s presence into your daily life.
