By Carol Moore
“He who walks with the wise grows wise…” Proverbs 13:20 (NIV)
“The world of the generous gets larger and larger; the world of the stingy gets smaller and smaller. The one who blesses others is abundantly blessed; those who help others are helped.” Proverbs 11:23-25 (The Message)
Devotion
What are the wise men of Proverbs trying to teach us? An Introduction to Proverbs in the NIV translation suggests the foundation of wisdom is first, a reverence toward God, and then a personal commitment to follow practical instructions that lead to a meaningful life. These scriptures remind us to be aware of the impact of others on our lives-the good and the not so good.
By now, the U.S. team members have experienced a few weeks of life in Zimbabwe. Our Zimbabwean partners have lovingly welcomed and supported you. Your senses are overloaded with new sights, thoughts, experiences, and relationships. Perhaps the U.S. team members haven’t even adjusted to the time difference—it is overwhelming! As you gather for breakfast and devotions today, celebrate all of your team members—learn from them and lean on them. Look around this Prayer Circle. Each individual is so rich in their own wisdom and experiences. Your teammates are such a blessing and a source of encouragement and support. As the verse on the back of your team shirts emphasizes, “…don’t give up”. Be generous in your love-share Jesus with your new friends. Be aware and stay in awe; absorb the wisdom you are learning and sharing because when you return home to the U.S. or to your daily life in Hanwa, Harare, or Cape Town, you will want to bless others with the lessons you have learned.
Your family and friends back home are waiting to hear about your experiences. As you share the love of your community with a new community, know that your church family is praying for each of you and for your new friends. You will return filled and overflowing with new wisdom lessons to share.
Prayer
Our Father, thank you for the life lessons You teach us every day. May they lead us to wisdom. Teach us to follow Jesus’ example and share your love with others. With grateful hearts, we pray in Jesus’ name.
AMEN
