"Not in word, but in Power"

I Corinthians 4:20
"For the kingdom of God is not in word, but in power."

It seems that God reminded me through this verse that it matters not what I can say. After many years of living the Christian life, I can learn just the right things to say that make me sound 'ultra-spiritual.' These words are spoken for the glory of man and have no lasting affect on my life and the lives of those I influence.

What matters most is whether or not the power of God rests on my life. The old hymn quotes, "All is vain unless the spirit of the Holy One comes down." My dear sweet great grandmother, Ruby Byrom, used to sing this sweet hymn, "Brethren We Have Met to Worship." What a dear sweet saint she was and what a great truth she sang!

God, I invite you into every area of my life no matter how small it may seem. I need You as the center of all I do. Thank You for this great reminder You sent my way!

Not Quick to Judge...

I Corinthians 4:5
"Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God."

Isn't it amazing how we always seem to know the intents of the heart in others around us?! We certainly act is if we do so often, I know I am guilty. But, the truth is, I cannot possibly know all the thoughts and intents of man's heart around me, even though often they may appear to be as open as a book.

Hebrews 4:12 reminds us that only the wisdom of God can see through the exterior of a man to really know the 'thoughts and intents of the heart.'
"For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword...and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart."

I cannot judge man's intents; I ought to leave this in the hands of the Lord. I have enough to worry about in keeping my own walk with God as it should be. Thank You, God, for this reminder not to be quick to judge the thoughts and intents of the heart in others around me.