"Don't have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels." -- 2 Timothy 2:23

In the United States, we are quickly approaching an election day that will impact our country for the next four years.  It is a country divided, and the tension from the hostility of both sides at times is palpable.  What is the believer's role in this?  The debates have been substantive, but the internet water cooler clashes have been much less civil.  They have been petty and even ludicrous at times.  As we lend our voice to the democratic process, let's keep in mind the teachings of our faith.  If you're going to argue and debate, do so in a way that preserves relationship. No need to fight, as we're all on the same team.

Readings:  Jeremiah 44:24-47:7; 2 Timothy 2:22-3:17; Psalm 94:1-23; Proverbs 26:6-8

"In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay; some are for noble purposes and some for ignoble. If a man cleanses himself from the latter, he will be an instrument for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work." -- 2 Timothy 2:1-21

Junk in = junk out.  What do you fill your mind with each day?  What do you watch, listen to, devote time and attention to?  From this letter to Timothy, we hear the importance of filling our lives with worthy endeavors and valuable relationships.  Is it time to do an inventory of your life and its contents?  What junk do you need to clean out of your closet?  What do you need to bring into your life that's not currently there?  Much to think and pray about...

Readings:  Jeremiah 42:1-44:23; 2 Timothy 2:1-21; Psalm 92:1-93:5; Proverbs 26:3-5

"He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty." -- Psalm 91:1

It's said that the body is the temple that houses the soul.  Our homes house our bodies.  But what beyond that?  When we consider shelter, we are thinking of protection from the elements.  Our homes can protect our bodies from the physical forces of nature and keep us dry and warm, but our bodies don't have the same utility on our souls, for bodies cannot offer protection against countering spiritual forces.  As spiritual beings, we must dwell in the presence of God in the context of our relationship with him.  When we do so, we firmly establish ourselves on high ground away from the raging forces of spiritual destruction.

Readings:  Jeremiah 39:1-41:18; 2 Timothy 1:1-18; Psalms 90:1-91:16; Proverbs 26:1-2 

"Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who lacks self-control." -- Proverbs 25:28

One of the strongest predictors of success in life involves the ability to control one's self.  Those who can master the art of delayed gratification often live more fulfilling and richer lives.  The one who lives by impulse often finds life to be a struggle and seems to always be behind the curve.  Establishing things that last in life takes time.  We see it in nature... a weed will grow quickly, but does not last beyond a season.  An oak tree grows slowly but becomes a majestic figure in the landscape.  Would you like to be more like a week or an oak tree?

Readings:  Jeremiah 37:1-38:28; 1 Timothy 6:1-21; Psalm 89:38-52; Proverbs 25:28

"Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, O Lord. They rejoice in your name all day long." -- Psalm 89:15

Have you recently seen a child-- a young child-- who walks without a care in the world because they know their mother or father is near?  The child is happy, confident, and safe.  But when the child turns a corner and mom and dad are out of sight, on the child's face is only fear.  The tears well up and the lip quivers.  Not happy nor confident, because they have been separated.  But the parent hasn't left, the child has just taken a turn and can't see them for a moment.  The child quickly turns back and right away, everything's okay, because the parent is right there.

We are like that child.  When we walk closely with God, in a place of trust, we walk with confidence and full of joy.  When we separate ourselves from God, we get lost, and life makes little sense.  We react to things out of fear and a need for self-preservation.  And yet God is near.  Turn back, and you'll see him again.

Readings:  Jeremiah 35:1-36:32; 1 Timothy 5:1-25; Psalm 89:14-37; Proverbs 25:25-27

"The heavens praise your wonders, O Lord, your faithfulness too, in the assembly of the holy ones. For who in the skies above can compare with the Lord? Who is like the Lord among the heavenly beings?" -- Psalm 89:5-6

There was a time when constellations were considered to be "heavenly beings".  Is this what the Psalmist is referring to?  Imagine what it looked like when they looked up at the sky on a clear night.  There was no electricity to power cities and therefore no light emanating from the earth to block the view of the stars.  On clear nights with no moon, they must have been able to see the stars so clearly that they felt a part of them.  Thinking the earth was flat, the stars above represented the heavenly realm, all ordered, orchestrated, and ruled by God.  How can you not consider a creator when you view the majesty of the created order?  Who can be above that creator?  It leads us to a place of awe and humility.  A place of worship. 

Readings:  Jeremiah 33:1-34:22; 1 Timothy 4:1-16; Psalm 89:1-13; Proverbs 25:23-24

"Like one who takes away a garment on a cold day, or like vinegar poured on soda, is one who sings songs to a heavy heart." -- Proverbs 25:20

I am one who loves humor.  Without it the world would be a dreadful place.  I consume it and use it as I can.  I respect people with quick wit and a humility that allows them to not be afraid to look a little foolish at times.  But I also know that there is a time and a place for everything.  Sometimes, lightness is not what a situation calls for.  When your friend is in sorrow and pain, you can be a light presence, but don't make light of the circumstances.  You can bring a sense of levity, but don't call for it from the heavy-hearted.  When someone loses a loved one, don't point out "the bright side"... even when there is one, unless they draw attention to it first.  One of the best things you can do as a friend for someone who is grieving is to grieve with them.  Honor their loss with your tears too.

Readings:  Jeremiah 31:27-32:44; 1 Timothy 3:1-16; Psalm 88:1-18; Proverbs 25:20-22