After Jesus was born, the Bible tells us that Wise Men came from the East to bow before Him and worship Him. They went to great lengths just to get a glimpse of the child and traveled a long distance for many months, following the star. When they saw Him, they were so overwhelmed. The scripture says they fell on their faces to honor and worship Him.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. That means that we should have a reverential honor and respect for Him — just like the Wise Men did. We are wise when we set everything else in life aside in order to seek Him. We are wise when we worship Him and give Him everything that we are. We are wise when we take time to honor Him. Remember, God is a rewarder of the people who diligently seek after Him. As you continue to put Him first in all you do, you’ll increase in wisdom and discernment, and you’ll move forward into the life of blessing He has in store for you.
A Prayer for Today
Father in heaven, today I choose wisdom by choosing to honor You. I put You first in my heart, my mind, my emotions and my actions. Show me Your ways that I may walk with You and acknowledge You in everything I do in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Large trees represent power, majesty and stability. Have you ever noticed the difference between a tree planted by the water and a tree far away from water? The tree next to the water is much more healthy and vibrant. Its fruit and blossoms are the most beautiful.
In the same way, when you are “planted” in the Word of God, your spirit is fed and you grow strong just like the tree by the water. You’ll bring forth fruit at the proper season. In other words, you’ll be in the right place and the right time. You’ll be productive and fruitful. And notice the end of today’s verse. It says that whatever you do will prosper! Do you want to prosper in your relationships? Seek God’s Word regarding relationships. Do you want to prosper in your health? Seek God’s Word about healing. Do you want to prosper in your finances? Seek God’s Word regarding finances. Make sure your heart and mind are planted in the Word of God. Let Him illuminate your heart with truth. Let Him wash over you with His promises. Seek Him, trust Him and obey Him, and everything you do will prosper!
The very moment we receive Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, we instantly become a new creation. Our spirits are made alive in Him, the old passes away, and His peace fills our hearts. Of course, everything in your life doesn’t change instantly. Some things do, but some things God will do in your life over time as you grow in your relationship with Him. The key is to keep moving forward in your spiritual journey one step at a time. Keep your eyes forward and don’t get stuck in the past.
Today, remember, God is at work in your life. You may not be where you want to be. You may have made some mistakes or had some setbacks. But remember, in Him, you are the righteousness of God. In Him, you are new. In Him is everything you need to have victory in every area of your life!
The next time you feel overwhelmed by sickness, challenges or despair, remember, the same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead dwells in you. You may have been burdened by an addiction, fear or worry, but there’s nothing that can stand against the power of God. Rise up and declare by faith, “He whom the Son sets free is free indeed. I am restored and healed in the name of Jesus!” As you rise up in faith and declare the Word of God, you are activating His power within you—the same power that raised Jesus from the dead!
We all face challenges. We all have obstacles to overcome. But if we can keep the right perspective, it will help us stay in faith so that we can move forward into victory. You may feel right now like the challenges that you face are too big or too overwhelming. One thing I’ve learned is that average people have average problems. Ordinary people have ordinary challenges. But remember, you’re not average. You’re not ordinary. You are extraordinary. God breathed His life into you. You are exceptional, and exceptional people face exceptional difficulties. But, the good news is that we serve an exceptional God! He’ll pour out His exceptional grace, exceptional wisdom and exceptional favor!
When you have an extraordinary problem; instead of being discouraged, be encouraged knowing that you’re an extraordinary person and have an extraordinary future. Your path is shining brighter and brighter. You are on an extraordinary path. Keep standing in faith, keep declaring victory over your future, keep declaring His promises. Keep declaring that you are moving forward into the exceptional favor the Lord has in store for you!
