The Lesson of the Gourd
Daily Reflections, Saturday, August 16, 2008
Today's Scripture: Colossians 3:1-3
From an oasis of shade in a hot desert to a hungry worm’s gourmet lunch, a gourd quickly became the center of attention in Jonah’s life. God prepared this plant as shade for the weary prophet, who witnessed over 120,000 people get saved. But Jonah stormed off into the barren desert. He didn’t want God to show mercy to these people.
But then Jonah’s gourd died. It had given him shelter from the hot desert sun. It had given him happiness. It had given him satisfaction. Without it, life just wasn’t worth living.
Isn’t Jonah much like us? We spend our lives watering our precious “gourds,” hoping to find in their shelter comfort and satisfaction. But we often fail to see what’s most important: Security is found only in a relationship with Jesus Christ, and our lives must be devoted towards seeing others come to know Him. God gave us mercy so we might share it.
Our “gourds” may include a nice house, a wonderful family, the affection of a girlfriend or boyfriend, or a swelling retirement package. We’re okay, as long as our “gourd” is healthy. But when worms of troublesome times attack our precious “gourd,” we fall apart.
Are any “gourds” growing in your life? Pray that God would help you focus on what’s important. Life is worth living, so show it!
Today's Quote: When first things are put first, second things are not suppressed but increased. —C.S. Lewis
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- Title: "The Lessons of the Gourd"
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