04/03/2023
MY LENT DIARY
DAY 11 - SATURDAY, 4TH MARCH 2023.
STOP TRAMPLING ON PRECIOUS PEARLS!
One thing we forget to thank God for is the people he places in our lives. Unfortunately, we remember those who hurt us more than those who continue to be a blessing to our lives. We dwell on the faults of the people who may be long gone from our lives; sadly, they may still have the power to destroy our joy if we let them. They came into our lives at a point in time for a reason; sometimes their work comes to an end, and God moves them on.
I feel like blessing the Lord today for the people in my life - "past, present, and future." When we talk about taking stock of everything worthy of thanksgiving, what comes to mind? maybe the physical things that surround us. It may be your lovely spouse, pretty children, emaculate houses, successful businesses, highly rewarding jobs, and, of course, good health. Hardly do we count the people in our lives.
We must do all we can, not to take people for granted, especially people who have genuinely loved and been there for you. The reason is that good and selfless people are becoming rare each day to find. Romans 12:18 says, "If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men." Since you continue to live with humans on this earth, you have to learn how to deal with humans every day of your lives. You have to understand that God brought even the prickly ones to try you and to use them to mould a good character in you. Remember! "Everything happens for a reason."
Sadly, one group of people who get dumped, and easily replaced are pastors, and except the man of God arms himself with Agape (unconditional) love, they will dwell in bitterness and seize to continue the selfless and laborious work they have been entrusted with.
People are left broken and pained for years because of broken relationships, but you can heal from the trauma, if you can catch this message, and be thankful for the people who come and go - thank God they were there at a time when they needed to be there. Truth be said, living with humans can be more painful than animals. A dog will love his master without complaining, but humans keep records of every little wrong.
There is only one truth also reserved for people who trample on the pearls cast before them by others. The bible calls you a swine. A swine is a polluted animal that wallows in its faeces with joy. Try never to be associated with this description. Repent if it fits you. If you say that someone is casting pearls before swine, you mean that they are wasting their time by offering something that is helpful or valuable to someone who does not appreciate or understand it. They do not value what should be valued. In all things, be resolute to remain the person on the giving side - the one who is casting the pearls, for it is more blessed to give than to receive.
GOD RICHLY BLESS YOU!
Brother Fred Apenteng
(Senior Pastor PCCI, London)