2 Chronicles 15:7

Scripture:

2 Chronicles 15:7 “But you, take courage! Do not let your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded.” (ESV)

Observation:

I first had to find it, then prepare it by scratching off the old, then cut it to shape and finally apply the glue and lay on the patch. Today's verse speaks about having courage and strong hands. While I was fixing an old inner tube, I began to think about how relationships can be fixed almost the same way. First, we need to find what's wrong. Then we need to scratch off the old past of the relationship, make a new patch (ask for forgiveness), apply the glue, and finally apply the patch (live the forgiveness). Most broken relationships can be salvaged. We will need courage to do so, to be the stronger person. It will take hard work to reach out and offer a forgiving handshake. Finally, when we apply the glue of Jesus Christ, we will be rewarded with something most often stronger than the original. So, what relationship needs your attention? It's tough to go around on a flat tire!

Application:

• Personal Application: Continue spending time with the Lord daily. Sow righteousness and reap the fruit of God's unfailing love. 
• Family Devotional: Read this chapter to your family. Ask them if anything spoke to them as you read. Talk about their answers and show them that one important aspect of this chapter is that we must continue to spend time with the Lord and keep our hearts focused on His plans and purposes. Pray for them.

TOM SEMBER has been involved in ministering to men for over 20 years. He is an ordained minister with the AG in the NY Ministry Network. Tom lives with his wife, Carolyn, and children in New York. You can connect with Tom on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.