Recently while meeting with a group of men that I am leading we were challenged to write down ten scriptures that are special in our lives. I found that it didn’t take me long to make that list. As I looked at that list again today I saw the importance of each one in my life. I think that you will also find them to be special in your life. I am going to share the first one today.

The scripture that I have chosen for today is found in Luke’s Gospel. In chapter six Jesus teaches his followers that they are to LOVE even their enemies (v 27-36). This was a very hard saying for them to put into practice in their lives. It is STILL hard for most of us to show compassion on those who hate and abuse us.

Jesus goes on to tell us that we are not to condemn others. He makes it clear that when we judge others we are judging ourselves (v41-42). This is hard for all of us who pride ourselves on having it all together. He points out that what we say and do comes from our hearts. Only a good tree produces good fruit. OUCH!

The verse that challenges me and I know will challenge you today is verse forty-six. Here is what it says, “So why do you call me Lord, when you won’t obey me?” Forty years ago this Spring I was challenged with these words. I had prided myself on having an effective ministry and moving UP in the RANKS. That felt good. Everyone wants to make it to the top. I was right there and enjoying MY success when HE challenged me to look at this verse. I called Him Lord, no question. Was He Lord of my life? That was another question. When I examined my life in His presence I had to say NO. I was Lord and in fact I used HIM as my servant. I had it backwards. On that day as I was challenged I began to weep in HIS presence. I asked Him to forgive me for my prideful ways and to take His RIGHTFUL place in my life.

That day was the beginning of a new relationship with Jesus for me. When He took over as Lord of my life he began to show me the things in my life that were out of order and needed changing. It was the beginning of something that has gone on for forty years and it is STILL in progress. He showed me what I needed to do in every area of my life to let HIM be in control. It wasn’t easy, BUT GOD in His Grace, Mercy and Love has faithfully continued His work in my life.

I am so grateful today that JESUS IS LORD of my life. He wants to be Lord of your life TODAY. Invite Him in! HE IS WAITING for your invitation.

-Mel