Manly Minute - November 24th

HOLIDAYS OR HOSTILE-DAYS

by Sean Griffith

My favorite time of year is upon us as we gives thanks during Thanksgiving, and celebrate the birth of Jesus on Christmas morning.  And as if that were not enough holiday celebration, we follow it up with New Year’s Eve!  With all this fun and cheer comes extended time with family and friends.  For some, this can be a challenge depending on the family dynamics.  Along these lines I bring a Godly reminder and encouragements from Hebrews.  

“Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord”.  Heb. 12:14

In order for us to live in peace with “all” men (women and children included), we must “make every effort”.  As you come together, let us be the peacemakers and an example of how we ought to love one another, especially those who need extra grace!  Decide now, and again the morning of, and again the moment before people arrive at your door or you at theirs, that you will make every effort to live in peace because it honors the Lord!  Below are a few reminder verses that we would all be wise to take a moment to ponder. 

Prov 15:1

A gentle answer turns away wrath ,

but a harsh word stirs up anger. 

Prov 15:18

18 A hot-tempered man stirs up dissension,

but a patient man calms a quarrel. 

James 1:26

26 If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue , he deceives himself and his religion is worthless.

James 3:9-11

9 With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness.   10 Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be. 

And finally, Jesus says in Matt 5:9, “Blessed are the peacemakers , for they will be called sons of God.”   As sons of God, let us live up to the name we have been given and love as the Lord has abundantly loved us!  Happy Thanksgiving Godly Manly Men!