Worship

Scripture

If you haven’t read “The 5 Love Languages,” consider this my recommendation to do so. It’s a book with a simple premise about the way humans give and receive love in 5 ways. One that tends to stand out above the rest is called “words of affirmation.” For example, this way to communicate love would include saying things like “I think you’re wonderful,” “I want to be around you all the time” or the famous three words, “I love you.” 

Words of affirmation are a popular way to give and receive love but I don’t find myself belonging to that camp often. Unlike my husband whose day can be brightened by a simple compliment, I think words are cheap. They don’t require alot of energy and they are often used to mislead. I’ve seen too many people say one thing and do something else. 

Jesus tells us a story of two sons in Matthew 21. One of the brothers speaks with disobedience but ultimately has the correct actions, and the other responds with obedience but doesn’t follow through. Jesus  asks in Matthew 21:31, “ Which of the two did the will of his father?” The answer is obvious; the brother who spoke with disobedience but eventually honored his father.

Ultimately our words should always match our actions! In fact, the bible says in Matthew 5:37, “Let what you say be simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything more than this comes from evil.” But in reality, our intentions, or the things we say are often left in the dust when we’re faced with the actions that ought to follow.

Jesus shows us in this parable what really counts. Whether we choose to come to Him after a life of sin and disobedience does not disqualify us from His eternal blessing as long as we simply come to Him! In the same way, if our words sound good but our hearts are disobedient, we will be counted as such. Let your words be true, recognizing that they represent a place much deeper; your heart.

Prayer

HONOR GOD

ASK GOD

What do you need to ask God today? What’s on your heart?

SUBMIT TO GOD