Read
Proverbs 16
He who gives attention to the word will find good, and
blessed is he who trusts in the Lord. Proverbs 16:20
Attentiveness
is paying attention to other people’s needs and desires, respectfully listening
to them, focusing on what they have to say—not on our own interests. It is also
giving our full attention and contemplation to God’s Word. Jesus was very
attentive to those around Him—and to God His Father. He said over and over that
He came to do the will of His Father. He obviously listened to His Father—since
He spoke what His Father wanted Him to say…and did what He wanted Him to do.
Are you so focused—so attentive—on God that you do what He wants you to do and
say what He wants you to say?
Family Activity – Children need to be taught to care about others.
Being taught to share…beginning at about one-year of age, is a good point for
them realize that the needs of others must be considered. It is hard for
pre-school children to focus on others—their life is about “Me” and their own
needs. By the time children are in about the first or second grade they can
begin to empathize with others and understand that other people have needs and
interests beyond themselves. So be an example to them—share and care with not
only your children—but let them see that you care about others within your
family, your circle of friends, your neighborhood, your community, and beyond.
Put others first. That is scriptural. Do
nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one
another as more important than yourselves…from Philippians 2:3. By listening to others you’ll learn about their
needs and then rely on God—on the Holy Spirit—to show you what to do and say.
Prayer ~ Lord, sometimes I’m so caught up in my own
life that I don’t hear what others are saying—what they need. Help me to listen
and be attentive to others and to You.
[Recycled
from August 16, 2013]
Happy Birthday, Michelle!
Daily
Bible Reading: Jeremiah 32-34
©
2017 Text and photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All
scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.
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