Better Words, Better Actions: PraiseLive's 30 Day DevotionalSample

In our 36 years of marriage, Sherrie and I have moved a dozen times. The first 8 or 9 moves were friends and family affairs. Pick up trucks, flatbed trailers and a few scratch and dent moments. Eventually, it was time to start hiring some help. Three years ago, we moved again, and Sherrie prayed over a website that listed cleaning companies.  

She felt drawn to a particular company because when you are looking for the one, Jesus tells you which one.

The next day a team of three young people arrived at our door and hit the ground running. I was delighted to find out that two of them had just arrived in St. Paul from Africa!   

As we said goodbye in the garage, two things happened. First, I spoke a blessing over each one. Secondly, I asked one of them to read Ephesians 2:8. “For by grace you are saved through faith, this is not from yourselves; it is God’s gift – not from works, so that no one can boast.”   I asked one of the young men, “What does that mean?”

“It means that if the good outweighs the bad at the end of our lives, we make it into heaven.” His co-worker jumped in, “Were you not listening to what you just read? This verse means that salvation is a gift we receive!”  Moments later, all three bowed their heads and prayed to invite Jesus to be their Savior and Lord.

In Mark 16:15, Jesus gave us this command. “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.” Jesus sends us to the ends of the earth, but he also calls us to reach the people in our home or neighborhood.

Reflection: As people come into your home or neighborhood, which one is Jesus drawing to Himself?   When the door opens to share the love of Jesus trust this promise. “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:8

Praise + Prayer: Lord Jesus, open my eyes to the ones you have brought to my home and neighborhood. Give me a glimpse of their hopes and dreams, and anoint me to speak a word of blessing to them. Open their eyes to receive you!

Action Idea: When hiring someone, ask Jesus to lead that decision.  As they begin to work, watch for something specific that you can compliment. As you present the gospel, ask the Lord to show you something specific about their hope and a future.