Deep Creek Java Devotion — February 8, 2010
Who Calls the Play
Scripture Reading:
James 1:17 (HCSB) Every generous act and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights; with Him there is no variation or shadow cast by turning
Devotion & Meditation:
Never make the mistake of thinking you are responsible for all that you have. The triumphs of life are gifts, not merit badges. Sometimes people get what they deserve for their hard work and effort, but just as often they do not. James says that every good thing in life is from the Father above who is the source of life itself. The following story illustrates how we become confused about how we got what we have. A newspaper reporter went to interview a successful entrepreneur. “How did you do it?” he asked. “How did you make all this money?” The entrepreneur was glad to tell his story. “You see, when my wife and I married, we started out with a roof over our heads, some food in our pantry, and five cents between us. I took that nickel, went down to the grocery store, bought an apple, then shined it up and sold it for ten cents. Then I bought more apples, shined them up and sold them for twenty cents apiece.” The reporter was beginning to catch on, and thought this would be a great human interest story. “Then what happened?” he asked excitedly. “Then my father-in-law died and left us $20 million,” the rich man said. He had fooled himself into thinking he had done something, forgetting that he had received something. Don’t forget all you have been given, and remember to thank the Giver for each and every good thing He bestows.
I am thankful for the warmth, electric and the family I have. Even though my physical mobility is a bit limited, I am thankful for the health the Lord sustains me with and will attack the days ahead with a new vigor and intensity. Nothing like being on the bench for a few plays to see what you are missing! Than you Jesus for helping me regain a focus and most importantly, thank you Jesus for doing…doing everything! It is not me nor has it ever been me! Thank you
Keep the Son in your eyes,
Dr. Ben J. Lahay
Phil 1:21
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