3 Minute Read
Today’s Bible Reading:
1 Kings 7:1-51
Acts 7:30-50
Psalm 128:1-6
Proverbs 16:31-33
Today’s Bible Verse(s):
Proverbs 16:32 (NLT): “Better to be patient than powerful; better to have self-control than to conquer a city.”
Reflections on Today’s Bible Verse(s):
The verse that I have chosen for today is intriguing. When we reflect on it, we realize that it has two lines, and each line holds up one attribute over another.
But, as we look further, something begins to come into focus. The first attribute of each line is personal mastery, and the second is mastery over others.
Proverbs 16:32 (NLT): “Better to be patient (self-mastery) than powerful (mastery over others); better to have self-control (self-mastery) than to conquer a city (mastery over others).”
The point is pretty straightforward, isn’t it? Our sinful natures may cause us to want to control others, but the person we should be seeking to control and master is ourselves.
In fact, if we would ever be used by God to lead others, we had better learn to lead ourselves first. Someone who lacks personal disciple and self-mastery will lack the ability to lead others in a way that honors Christ.
Matt Ellis is the pastor of First Baptist Church in Polk City, Florida (fbcpolkcity.com). His latest book is God’s Grace in the Real World. Connect with him on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn.
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