THE UPPER ROOM DAILY DEVOTIONAL 16 AUGUST 2024, FRIDAY MESSAGE
TOPIC: Part of the Solution
Today’s Reading
Matthew 7:1-5
Why do you see the speck in your neighbor’s eye but do not notice the log in your own eye? – Matthew 7:3 (NRSVUE)
TODAY’S MESSAGE
“It’s a shame people use the side of the road as their own personal trash can!” exclaimed a man coming toward me one morning when I was out for my daily walk. I voiced my agreement while he continued to wave his hands in annoyance at the discarded cans, paper cups, and plastic bottles that littered our road. He shook his head as we moved past each other and continued on our separate ways.
I noticed that he had nothing with him to pick up trash. Neither did I. In that moment, I realized I was not helping to solve the problem. As my daughter once so wisely stated, “Mom, unless you are ready to do something about the problem, quit complaining!” Today’s scripture also reminds me that I can either point a judgmental finger or I can get to work and be part of the solution, leading by example.
It is easy to complain, but solutions require action. I now carry a trash bag with me on all my daily walks. Our road is looking pretty tidy these days, and not just by my efforts alone.
Today’s Prayer
Father God, help us to love our neighbors not just with our words but also by taking positive steps to make the world a better place. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Thought for the Day
What small action can I take to make the world a better place?
Prayer Focus
For wisdom to lead by example
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More from Wilma R. Vernich
The Upper Room Daily Devotional 16 August 2024 Message. The Upper Room is a daily devotional magazine published in more than 30 languages and 100 countries around the world. The daily meditations are written by readers of the magazine and others interested in sharing their faith experiences through writing—both laity and clergy, published authors and new writers. The meditations are stories of real people working to live faithfully with the Bible as their touchstone. Every day, readers of The Upper Room around the world read the same story in many different languages and pray the same prayer together. Read More