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Daily Reading: Deuteronomy 9:1-10:22, Luke 8:4-21, Psalm 69:19-36, Proverbs 12:2-3
Daily Verse: “A good man obtains favor from the Lord, but a man of evil devices he condemns.” Prov. 12:2
Virtue obtains favor.
God looks favorably upon virtuous acts. Knowing our hearts, the Lord understands the motives for our actions. Intent matters more than results.
“I the LORD search the heart and test the mind, to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his deeds.” Jeremiah 17:10
Allowing God to cleanse our hearts helps us have pure motives. A friend published his latest book, hitting number one on Amazon for pre-order in his category. Immediately I felt jealous of his success.
But then, a nudge from the Holy Spirit helped me identify the negative emotion. As an author, I know the work involved with completing a project. Instead of envy, I rejoiced because God blessed my friend’s efforts, supporting him and his work.
God favors the virtuous heart; He knows our intent. Evil intentions receive the Lord’s condemnation. But pure hearts enjoy God’s blessings.
Lord, forgive us for evil intentions. Please cleanse our hearts and make them pure. Let everything we do honor and glorify You as we strive for virtue. Please help us do better today than yesterday. IJNIP. Amen
