Wednesday, October 2, 2024
In the early parts of the summer of ‘95, I wanted to be the first in my core group to learn to dunk a basketball. It's not an easy shot to make. I went to Jacob’s Elementary daily until I finally flushed the ball over the rim. It took a lot of practice, and it would have been helpful to learn from one of the greatest basketball players ever. I wish I’d had Kobe Bryant’s book to reference and give me insight.
Kobe Bryant, with a 20-year career and five championship wins, is a basketball legend. To help people realize how much effort went into his success, Kobe wrote “The Mamba Mentality.” He wanted to teach young players and devoted students of the game how to "play the right way." It’s a wealth of information on how to become a great basketball player for anyone who wants to excel at the sport. If you wanted to play basketball like Kobe, it would be foolish of you to ignore his instructions.
When it comes to developing our relationship with God and seeking wisdom about marriage, relationships, finances and career, the Bible brings unparalleled insight. In order to be successful, you must construct a foundation by applying the wisdom God gives us in his Word. You will need to learn from your mistakes and be open to the work Jesus wants to do in your life.
Matthew 7:26-27
26 “But anyone who hears my teaching and doesn’t obey it is foolish, like a person who builds a house on sand. 27 When the rains and floods come and the winds beat against that house, it will collapse with a mighty crash.”
The good things in your life didn’t happen overnight. You learned a thing or two from the people around you and worked diligently to reach your goals. God wants us to do the same with Scripture. He wants us to build our lives on the strength and steadiness of his Word, teaching us to pray, obey, and trust him. When we choose this, we can navigate stress from a place of Christ’s strength.
James 1:22
But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves.
He has given us everything we need to glorify him and make a difference in the world.
Questions:
Do you feel like you let yourself down when you listen to the weekend message but don’t revisit those lessons during the week? How has your life changed from applying Scripture to your daily routine?
Next Steps:
Utilize the Daily and explore tabs in the CedarCreek app during the week. Find a Bible study that aims to reduce stress in your life.
Prayer:
God, I know I’ve been foolish more than once. I appreciate the lessons learned from my lack of dedication. Your truth reminds me to be more purposeful and guides me in making the necessary changes to live and lead in a way that glorifies you. I can never thank you enough for the love you’ve shown me, even though I don’t deserve it. Because of your sacrifice, help me honor you in all I say and do. Amen.
Series Theme Verse:
Ephesians 3:16-17
16 I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. 17 Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong.
This post was written by Jaron Camp, a regular contributor to the LivingItOut Devotional.