Devotions/Partners
Matthew 23:2-3 (KJV): “The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat: All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not.”
COMMENTARY: If you read verses 4-12 in this chapter, you’ll discover that many of the religious leaders of the day loved the control and authority they held over people, loved the good “PR” in the public square, loved the attention and respect they received. However, if you examined the actual fruit of their own lives, they were sorely lacking in substance. In many ways they were pompous, self-centered, egotistical “windbags.”
APPLICATION: The verb “to frustrate” means “to prevent from attaining a goal or fulfilling a desire; to thwart; to nullify.” Frustration comes from many different directions. Sometimes God frustrates us because we aren’t trusting Him or we are not in line with His goals and desires for our lives. Sometimes Satan frustrates us because he knows we are in God’s will, and he tries to trip us up. Sometimes we frustrate ourselves, sometimes other people frustrate us, and sometimes we frustrate others.
Do you ever get frustrated at work by leaders who talk up a good story, but never deliver? They love the power, authority, PR, attention, respect and perks of leadership. However, the actual fruit of their lives and labors is sorely lacking. There’s a huge gap between perception and reality.
If a leader at work claims to be a follower of Christ, then you should see a servant Spirit. You should also see good fruit coming from a good tree. Don’t allow high-level spinmeisters to manipulate and deceive you from seeing reality. The time may come–perhaps today–when you have to call a spade a spade, and courageously stand against “spin” and stand up for what is right and truthful. In the final analysis, you’ll be glad you did.
Joyfully yours,
For Further Exploration
For further exploration about Proverbs 13:11 (KJV),read Proverbs and Work from the Theology of Work Bible Commentary.