Tuesday; September 18

What did you want to be when you grew up?  For me, it was probably a toss-up between a major league baseball player, astronaut or professional skin-diver like Mike Nelson (in Sea Hunt).  There comes a point in time when maturity takes over and our focus becomes a bit more realistic.  For some of us, when this kicks in we begin to look close to home for our mentors and role models.  Many young men start to watch their fathers and consider following in their footsteps.  Often, young ladies, will consider the paths their mothers took – whether as a stay-at-home mom or in a career path outside the family.  Sure, other people can (and will) have an influence on our lives, but for a period of time the influence of our parents is felt. 
          Have we ever given much thought to the way our Heavenly Father can influence our labors?  No, we won’t be able to follow in God’s footsteps as Creator and Sustainer of the universe, but we might learn about how to live our lives from Him.  When the Apostle John considered mankind’s love for one another he wrote, “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God.” (I John 4:7).  Peter would give us an insight into how this can be done by observing, “Above all, keep fervent in your love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins.” (I Peter 4:8).  The only way we are going to be able to love like God loves is if we are able to forgive like God forgives.  We cannot exhibit a God-type of love when we refuse to forgive and insist on holding grudges.
          Are we hoping to emulate our Heavenly Father?  Let’s hang on to His spirit and let go of other people’s offenses.
          Think About It!

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