GPS-Don’t Poke the Bear

SEP 03  / Sunday – Read 2 Kings 2:23-25

Overview: Here’s a grizzly story where we learn adults can be bullies, Christians can act ungodly, and words (spoken or written) can really hurt (but also heal).

04 / Mon – Poking the bear  |  Read 2 Kings 2:23-25 / James 3:9-10 / Romans 12:14, 19

These rowdy young men were not just insulting an old man, they were disrespecting God’s prophet. And how did this man of God respond? What was the result of his words? They were in the wrong but was Elisha’s response the right one? Have you been tempted to curse those who treat you badly? What does God tell us to do instead? Your words have power. Make sure you use them wisely. And when you have difficulty with your tongue, ask the Holy Spirit to help you control it.

05 / Tue – Bearing on your shoulders  |  Read Exodus 28:9-12, 15-21, 29-30

Bears are animals but to bear something is a verb, an action word. The Bible has many examples of things we bear. In Exodus, Aaron the priest was to go into God’s presence in the tabernacle bearing the names of the 12 tribes carved into precious stones both on his shoulders and over his heart. It is a beautiful example of something you could do. Take a moment to consider. Whose names can you bring before the Lord God? You could be the only one praying for them today.

06 / Wed – Bearing grudges  |  Read Leviticus 19:18 / Genesis 50:15-21

Is it difficult for you to let things go, to forgive the offenses of others? While it is harder to forgive when someone hasn’t shown any remorse, that is God’s way. As you read Joseph’s story, you can see he had gained a new perspective. He saw how God used his suffering (v 20). Is that why he was able to forgive and treat his brothers kindly before they even recognized who he was? What could happen in your difficult relationships if you learned to think more like Joseph?

07 / Thu – Bearing burdens  |  Read Galatians 6:2 (KJV) / Psalm 68:19

Are you carrying a heavy load on your mind or in your heart? If so, you might feel stressed when you read Paul’s words to the Galatian believers. Carry someone else’s load? When I am struggling to make it on my own? Look at the reason why you can help others in Psalm 68. These beautiful words contain a promise that you can depend on. The question is…will you accept the help He offers? Will you give your burdens to the Lord, trusting Him to work things out? When you do, then you’ll be able to obey His command to help others. In load bearing, two are always better than one.

08 / Fri – Bearing fruit  |  Read Galatians 5:22-25

Fruit-bearing trees, plants and vines provide wonderful additions to a healthy diet. Jesus reminds us of God’s purpose – that we bear much fruit. When we do, it blesses him, others and even ourselves. Fruit-bearing is only possible when branches stay connected to their source. As you stay close to Jesus, His life flows into yours and fruit is the result. As you read this list, identify the ones you need more of. Then ask the Holy Spirit to show you how to grow in those areas.

09 / Sat – Bearing an image  |  Read 2 Corinthians 3:17-18 / Ephesians 4:22-32

Coins bear an image. People do too. When you were little, did they say you looked just like your dad or your mom? Resemblance to a parent is gene-based but rough living can distort that family image as a person gets older. No matter what you look like today, God’s ultimate goal is that you are being transformed into Jesus’ image, that you would bear his resemblance in your words, attitudes and actions. How does this happen? The better you get to know someone you love and respect, the more like them you become. How well will you represent Him today?