Joni And Friends 3rd April 2024 Devotional Message
Joni and Friends 3rd April 2024 Devotional Wednesday Message. As you study today’s devotional, remember this; “Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15 (NLT)
TOPIC: Brooke Schrader
“Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be. Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring?” – James 3:10-11
Brooke Schrader walked into my office last month, an eleven-year-old girl with soft blond hair, a smattering of freckles, pixielike eyes, and a full mouth that easily broke into a grin. She was joined by her mother and pastor. They thought it would be good for her to meet another person who is facing tough limitations.
Brooke has juvenile arthritis. I would never have guessed except that her mother pointed out Brooke’s fused ankle. After that I noticed how Brooke kept squeezing her hands and rubbing her knuckles. I also noticed her stiff gait. She was in a lot of pain. But her smile never showed it.
I asked if Brooke and I could spend some time alone in my art studio. We sat and talked about her friends at school, her hobbies, and her interest in art. Our discussion turned to spiritual things. I asked what her favorite verse was, thinking it might be the typical “John 3:16” or “Romans 8:28” most kids would choose. I was not prepared for her answer. Brooke proudly quoted our verse for today.
This eleven-year-old girl with the ready smile explained, “I could do a lot of complaining about my arthritis, but I’ve learned that’s not right. I want to trust God.” Brooke’s eyes held mine, revealing a wisdom far beyond her years. Her gaze burned right through me. I squirmed and privately confessed my disobedience in grumbling over a backache earlier in the day.
When Brooke left, a trail of some fresh scent remained. She had cleared the stuffy air in my office, reminding me I have nothing to complain about. God used a little child to lead me. “‘Do you hear what these children are saying?’ they asked him. ‘Yes,’ replied Jesus, have you never read, “From the lips of children and infants you have ordained praise”?’” (Matt. 21:16).
Lord, show me your wisdom through a child this week.
READ MORE TOPICS: OPEN HEAVENS, OUR DAILY BREAD, IN TOUCH, SEEDS OF DESTINY, STREAMS OF JOY, JOEL OSTEEN, MOUNTAIN TOP LIFE, DCLM DAILY MANNA, UCB WORD FOR TODAY