This summer, Dr. Green wanted to share some of his favorite First Steps from previous years.
July 8, 2024
After spending a few days on the Georgia coast at Annual Conference, I was bothered by flies and gnats that were a little pesky. Driving back to Columbus, I thought about this comparison: There is a vast difference between being tempted and yielding to it. And yet, if I know in advance that certain places will tempt me and I go there anyway, I am guilty of each temptation that comes my way. The way to deal with temptation is to look away from them and at the Lord. If you are still subject to them, continue to resist. There is no sin as long as you say, “No.” For every great temptation there will be many small ones. Wolves and bears are more dangerous than flies, but we are bothered most by the latter. You may never murder anyone, but you will certainly become angry. You may avoid adultery, but it is not easy to control your eyes. You may never steal anything from your neighbor, but you may covet it.
Let these flies and gnats buzz around you. Instead of fighting with them, do the very opposite of what the temptation is suggesting. For instance, if you are tempted to be vain, think about the troubles of others. If you are greedy, remember how death will take it all away from you, and then go give something away or pass up a profit. Make the effort and you will be hardened against future temptations (Francis de Sales—The Devout Life).
| This Week’s Readings: Monday – Genesis 41 Tuesday – Genesis 42 Wednesday – Genesis 43 Thursday – Genesis 44 Friday – Genesis 45 We are reading the Bible in just a little over a year! Our sermon series, “Genesis: All in the Family” coincides with the first book of the Bible. May we suggest that you watch or listen to sermons starting on April 21, 2024, through June 30, 2024, to accompany your recent readings. You may find these on our website at spumccolumbus.com. |
Things to Pray About: Pray for understanding and patience, especially when bad things happen. Pray for words of kindness, to you and from you. Pray for guidance, protection, healing, strength, courage, and faith. Our unwillingly absent members and shut-ins. Comfort those who are grieving. Wisdom for our church leaders, local leaders, and world leaders. Family restoration through forgiveness. Continued growth of the faith of the people. Especially pray for those in conflict and extreme distress at this time. “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done.” – Philippians 4:6 |