Divine Note #38 – September 21, 2009
Matthew 9:36 (NLT) 36 When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them because they were confused and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.John 10:14-15 (NIV) 14 "I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me— 15 just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep.
1 Peter 5:2-4 (NIV) 2 Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; 3 not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. 4 And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.
Philippians 2:1-5 Imitating Christ's Humility
1 If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2 then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. 3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. 4 Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. 5 Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus.
The guide that I used in preparation for leading a small group over the weekend suggested that the leader read the above verses (plus a few others) as a "devotional exercise to help prepare you with a shepherd’s heart." God’s Word touched me in a huge way – I was humbled by realizing that I need to have a servant’s heart in every aspect of my life.
I was also touched by the tenderness that our Lord had for everyone around him during his earthly ministry. When I think of how exhausted he had to be from being pulled in so many directions to help and heal people. When I think of how he laid down his life for all of us. When I think of his kindness and compassion – I am in awe of our Great God.
So, today, this Divine Note is dedicated to the compassion, to the kindness and to the loving nature of our Lord Jesus Christ. He loves us so much! I pray that you are able to feel his love. It’s a love that heals, that comforts, that strengthens and that is eternal – whether you are going through good or bad times. During the good times, that love feels like a song in your heart. During the difficult times, that love gives you hope. During a regular day, that love tickles your tummy!
Can’t even begin to tell you how wonderful that love is! I hope you can feel it for yourself!
Be encouraged and be blessed with Big God Hugs! :-)
Love,
Blanca
Visit the Divine Notes archive blog at www.mydivinenotes.blogspot.com - send these notes to your friends! Also, follow me on Twitter - http://twitter.com/BlancaV - as I share my love for Christ in 140 characters or less! It’s a great way to share your faith with the world!
Comments
Post a Comment