Day 25

Be slow to judge and quick to ask questions and to pray for wisdom.

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Scripture

“When Paul was called in, Tertullus (a lawyer) presented his case against Paul before Felix. ‘We have enjoyed a long period of peace under you, and your foresight has brought about reforms in this nation. Everywhere and in every way, most excellent Felix, we acknowledge this with profound gratitude. But in order not to weary you further, I would request that you be kind enough to hear us briefly.” — Acts 24:2-4

Observation

Tertullus was trying to butter up Felix before he presented his case against Paul. He had tried before to have Paul killed and it had failed, so he and the other Jews were trying a different tactic. They had fabricated charges against Paul in hopes that it would be enough to have him convicted and killed.

Application

This is a reminder to me to learn as much as possible before I decide something about someone or an issue at hand. In this world where it feels like there are always 2 competing sides, be slow to judge and quick to ask questions and to pray for wisdom.

Prayer

“Lord, I pray that you will give me wisdom and discernment in this very conflicted world we live in today. I ask for help in working through issues where nothing seems black and white and I am not even sure I am getting the true facts. Help me to ‘see’ who people really are. Proverbs 26:28 says, ‘A lying tongue hates those it hurts, and a flattering mouth works ruin.’ Help me to not ever be the ‘lying tongue’ and to not fall for the ‘flattering mouth’, but to discern the truth in all things. I pray that the truth will become obvious for all to see. Amen.”

Scripture

Get to a place where you can focus and read the daily Scripture passage several times. Take time to read and allow God to speak to you. Write down the one or two verses that stick out. Even consider rewriting the verse(s) in your own words.

Observation

Make a basic observation about the scripture you just read. What stood out? Was something repeated? What is the author trying to communicate? What does the Scripture passage teach you about God? What does it teach you about humanity?

Application

Ask, “What does this verse(s) mean for my life?” How might this verse affect your heart — how you feel? How does this verse challenge your thinking? How does it affect your will, asking, “What changes do I need to make in my life as a result of this passage of Scripture?”

Prayer

Write out a prayer to God. Scripture is God speaking to you, take this moment to speak back. Take a moment to say, “Thank you,” confess to Him what needs to change, or ask for something that is on your heart.