Good Intentions

1 Corinthians 16:14 ESV
Let all that you do be done in love.

I call today's devo "Good Intentions" because sometimes what we do with good intentions is not done in love. As I explain this keep in mind that I'm saying we should try to please everyone, but act in love where it is perceived in love.

With the best intentions we can crush a brother or sister in Christ. When someone is having an issue in his/her life, do you tell plainly what to do, or do you help them explore the proper resources (the Bible, prayer, Jesus' examples) so the Holy Spirit can guide them in resolving the issue?

This has become more and more important to me in the last several weeks. Do you remember the old slogan we had the kids saying a few years back, WWJD? (what would Jesus do?) I now ask myself, "what is the best way to show love they understand?" Read Matthew 22:37-39.

WARNING: this tactic doesn't always have immediate results. How many followers did Jesus have when He walked the Earth? Luke 10:1. And how many followers did Jesus have after Pentecost? Acts 2:41. (These aren't exact numbers, but just examples to show the difference.) Jesus always showed love, but it wasn't always received. Acts 24:16; Romans 12:18; Hebrews 12:14.

Just remember, you are not going to be able to solve anyone's problem - but by love, you can lead them to the One who can.