The Gathering Place Where Family Matters

“And he was angry and would not go in” (Luke 15:28.)

The prodigal brother returns home. Dad is throwing a party. As the older son returns from working in the field, he hears the sounds of celebration. Upon discovering that his wasteful brother had returned, a sudden surge of anger and resentment overtakes him. We can almost hear him scream at his father, recalling all his hard work and how this dad never gave him a party. Sometimes a resentment that is harbored distorts good judgment. The older brother really had everything and missed so much because he was being consumed with anger.

For today:  Do you wrestle with anger and resentment? Give it totally to the Lord. You will be glad you did. Everyone around you will be glad as well.

“O give thanks unto the Lord; for He is good…” (1 Chronicles 16:34).

King David is leading the children of Israel in worship and celebration of the goodness and glory of the Lord. They finally are bringing the ark back to the land. The importance of the ark of God could never be overstated. The Philistines captured it, but now it was being returned. Therefore, the people of Israel were giving great thanks to the Lord for His goodness. Likewise, you and I have much for which to give thanks unto Him.

For today: Far less grumbling and complaining as well as much more thanksgiving and praising will be good for you and me today.

“As far as the east is from the west, so far hath He removed our transgressions from us” (Psalm 103:12).

There is wonderful forgiveness in the Lord Jesus. Isn’t it grand that He does not say that our sins are removed as far as the north is from the south? We would be able to measure that. Our sins are as far removed as the east is from the west. This cannot be measured. When we ask the Lord to be our Savior, the wonderful news is that the Lord Jesus forgives sins. He REALLY forgives sins!

For today: As far as the east is from the west. That should be far enough for you. It is for me!

“I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes…” (Psalm 101:3).

King David makes a very strong and wonderful statement about his personal choices. He speaks of guarding what he chooses to watch. He is determined not to set a wicked thing before his eyes. Likewise, be careful what you watch and read. Does it pass the filter of wanting to please the Lord? Imagine the Lord Jesus sitting right beside you and looking at what you are seeing!

For today: As the children’s chorus goes, “Oh be careful little eyes what you see!”

“I will praise the Lord with my whole heart” (Psalm 111:1).

Have you ever watched a person who was working half-heartedly? Years ago I glanced up as I raked leaves. It was evident that several of my children had lost their enthusiasm for raking. They grew tired and other things more interesting had distracted them. Raking was not at the top of their list! I understood. It was not at the top of mine as well. This must not be the case when it comes to praising and worshipping the Lord. He is worthy of our whole heart!

For today: Be honest in your worship and praise of the Lord. Make a list of the many great blessings you enjoy.