Follow Christ's Example (Part 2)!

INSPIRE Devotionals With Emmanuel Afiawari Tuesday, December 31, 2024 Topic: FOLLOW CHRIST'S EXAMPLES (Part 2)! Bible Text: Philippians 2:5; 3 John 1:11 Philippians 2:5 NKJV 5. Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, 3 John 1:11 NKJV 11. Beloved, do not imitate what is evil, but what is good. He who does good is of God, but he who does evil has not seen God. INSPIRATION: Prophet Samuel, with all his measure of accuracy in discernment and judgment, was taught a very valuable lesson we must all take into the new year: "For the LORD does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart" (1 Sam. 16: 7). Many times, we're carried away by external features that hold very temporary potentials; external features such beauty, physical attractiveness, affluence, poise, glamour, etc. Whilst physical attractiveness is good, life is deeper than showbiz. Failure to heed, soon reveals that to be fooled at the surface is to be slain at the depth. Such cuts are very hard to heal from. The year ahead would reveal glamour like never seen, but a discerning heart would choose right. You'd discern opportunities from pits in disguise; you'd sense a dream fertiliser from a dream-killer; you'd discern a heart that is maleable from a stony, unrepentant and destructive being. You'd not be like Lot, who chose from his lustful appetite just to undermine Abram's influence, not knowing there was no future in his choice (Gen. 13: 10-17). May you receive grace to recognise potentials in its raw essence from problems in its refined form; may you see beyond the deceitful traits of people who camouflage their real intent; may you not marry trouble, employ a disaster or put a dubious person to lead your enterprise. Discern, and the closer you get to your goal, the more critical it is to separate from those who don't belong to your future (Gen. 22: 5; Matt. 17: 1). May you receive the wisdom for solid and profitable collaborations, know those to invest in. May you receive the wisdom to build, the understanding to establish, and the knowledge to fill your your enterprise with the kind of harvests you desire (Prov. 24: 3-4). May you not be caught in the Web of confusion that eyeservice sponsors; see beyond their facades and may the intent and thoughts in the hearts of people be revealed to you to enable you deal wisely. Above all, may you not lose sight of God's purposes that align with your goals . *TODAY'S TAKE HOME:* Be strategic with the people coming your way this new year; some are gold covered with mud. PRAYER: Oh Lord, may I not be blinded to gifts of men who may no look the part. Give me the uncanny wisdom, discipline and patience not to throw away goldmines while holding on to glistering chaff. Grant me sharpened discernment, and above all, lead me by the Holy Spirit that reveals secrets hidden from us physically, in Jesus name.