Topic: A self-ish life or a self-less life?
Bible Reading: Genesis 31
Memory verse: Genesis 31: 1&2
Jacob heard that Laban’s sons were saying, “Jacob has taken everything our father owned and has gained wealth from what belonged to our father.” And Jacob noticed that Laban’s attitude toward him was not what it had been.
Good morning ladies and gentlemen! How are you all doing? It has been a while. I apologise for not being consistent with posts these past two weeks. Now, we are in full swing!! There many surprises coming your way soon. Something is about to take place in August; I am so excited about. I trust that you will share in this excitement.
Today, we are continuing the Genesis Story but exploring Genesis 31. We are still studying and learning from Jacob's story. Before we begin today’s dose, I will like to ask that you answer these questions, “What do you think about people’s successes?” “How do you react to people’s successes?” I urge you to be very honest with yourselves. It is very important that you are!
From the Bible verses that we are reviewing, we see that Laban and his sons began to resent Jacob. They believed that Jacob’s wealth and success was stolen from Laban. They thought Jacob was selfish and unfair. This made Laban react differently to Jacob. In this case, who was being selfish? Laban and his sons or Jacob?
When we read this story, we are quick to say that what Laban and his sons were very selfish. We ask ourselves, "Why are they acting that way!" However, we do the same things! There are so many Christians who do not rejoice with others. They are always thinking about themselves. “What about me?” “It is not fair!” “How is this possible?” These are some of the statements and questions we ask ourselves when we see or hear of someone’s success. As Christians, is this how we must be living? Why are our lives full of jealousy and comparisons?
Why is it difficult to rejoice with others! We are always secretly wishing doom and evil on others; so that we can gain success. Who are you trying to out- smart? God? That is not possible. As Christians we must support and encourage each other. We must celebrate with others in their best times and sympathize with others in their lowest times.
What is the difference between us (children of God) and other people of this word; when we act this way? Are our lives representing who and what God is? These two questions are very important. When we live out of spite and jealousy; how would someone want to be a part of God’s family? We must learn to stop living selfish lives; but selfless lives.
If you used to live this way; it is not too late to change it. God is a forgiving God. He is willing to renew your mind, your heart and your soul. These emotions of jealousy, spite and comparisons can act as blockades to your miracle or your breakthrough. These emotions are implanted by the enemy to see you and many others fail. The enemy plants these thoughts and emotions so that you can turn away from that. Then you can also spread this through the schemes and plans that you would make to ensure success at all cost. The enemy just comes to steal, kill and destroy. Most importantly, the enemy tries to get as many people to turn away from God. Do not let the enemy use you this scheme. You have to be aware of yourself and your surroundings. For that you and I must arise; to make sure that the enemy does not use us as a vessel.
Each stay grounded in the word. Spend time speaking and listening to God. Seek for help and guidance from the Holy Spirit. These are the things we, as Christians, must do to stay rooted in Christ. Are you ready to make that change of living a Christ-like life? It is not too late to ask for forgiveness.
The prayer below is for anyone who is tired of living a life that is fueled by hatred, jealousy and sadness. You want to live a life full of joy and happiness; God is waiting for you with open arms to take way that burden. All you have to do is to make the decision to follow and say this short prayer.
Dear Lord,
I come to you today as a sinner. I admit that I am a sinner. I believe that Jesus is your Son and He came on to this earth to die for my sins. Dear Lord, let your Son come and fill me. Lord, I ask that He cleanses me off my sins. I am ready to stand for you and profess your Name. Thank you, Lord. Amen.
If you repeated this prayer with all the sincerity of your heart, congratulations!! You are now a part of God’s family. Welcome to the greatest family ever. Heaven is jubilating on your arrival. Your fellow brothers and sisters are also excited to have you on board. You can now be exempted from the wrath of the enemy and of God. Not only do you experience this, but your whole family as well. Wow! Isn’t the God you serve so cool? He is. Not only do you enjoy this, but you enjoy other blessings God has in store for His children.
Being a child of God is a wonderful thing. The road might not always be easy, but God is with you each and every step of the way. Guiding you, helping you and encouraging up. You will never regret this decision; I can assure you of that. Two things I would recommend for you to do are;
Get yourself a Bible (in a version you understand) and meditate on it day and night. In Joshua 1:8, we are told that when you meditate on the Word day and night, you will be prosperous and successful.
Find a Bible- believing church to attend and fellowship with other Christians. This would help you grow spiritually.
I am excited that you made this decision. Welcome! If you would like some help or more understanding into anything, you can leave a message (adding your email address) and I would be willing and happy to help you out. Hallelujah!
Have a wonderful day and let God inspire you!
This is the end of the hundred and sixth Part of the Genesis Story. How did you find it? Please give us feedback on how this message (and previous messages) have spoken to you. Don’t forget to subscribe to get notifications once we post.
Always remember to show love to everyone, as this is one of the most important commandments God left for us – “Love your neighbor as yourself.” In every situation, before you take a decision, remember WWJD (What Would Jesus Do). Shalom.
Please spend some time praying for Sammie’s Daily Dose to continue to be the platform for the sharing of The Gospel. Amen.