March 25 - Don't Waste the Fire

MARCH 25 - Don't Waste the Fire3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 12:27–28; Genesis 38//3-Year Bible (Year 1) Devotional Book Available on Amazon//________________________________________________________________________________Whoever is slothful will not roast his game, but the diligent man will get precious wealth. In the path of righteousness is life, and in its pathway there is no death. — Proverbs 12:27–28She was more righteous than I, since I did not give her to my son Shelah. And he did not know her again. — Genesis 38:26Sometimes we start something strong—like a new goal, a commitment to read the Bible, or a decision to follow God more closely—but we lose motivation halfway through. Proverbs 12:27 paints a strange but powerful picture: a hunter catches food but never cooks it. It’s like having potential but wasting it because of laziness or fear.Then there’s Genesis 38, one of the messiest chapters in the Bible. Judah made huge mistakes, and Tamar was deeply wronged. But even in this mess, God was at work. Tamar showed courage and persistence, and in the end, Judah recognized her righteousness. It’s a reminder that even when life is messy and we feel like giving up, God can redeem the broken parts and bring life through righteousness.________________________________________THINK ABOUT IT1. Don’t Waste What You’ve Been Given: What talents, relationships, or opportunities has God placed in your hands? Are you roasting the game—or letting it spoil?2. Righteousness Over Reputation: Tamar risked everything to stand up for what was right. How do you respond when doing the right thing might cost you something?3. God Works in the Mess: Judah’s story reminds us that God isn’t only present in the “clean” parts of our lives. Where do you need to invite Him into your mess?________________________________________BOTTOM LINEGod wants you to live with purpose and courage. Don’t let laziness, fear, or shame waste the fire He’s put in you. Even when your story feels like a mess, He can bring redemption and life.________________________________________PRAYERHeavenly Father, thank You for reminding me that You work even in the broken and complicated parts of my story. Help me not to waste the gifts, time, or opportunities You’ve given me. Give me the strength to choose what’s right, even when it’s hard, and the faith to trust that You are working behind the scenes. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.