June 13, 2015: SOAP #2018:

Scripture: 2Chronicles (NIV) 12:7 When the LORD saw that they humbled themselves, this word of the LORD came to Shemaiah: “Since they have humbled themselves, I will not destroy them but will soon give them deliverance. My wrath will not be poured out on Jerusalem through Shishak. 8 They will, however become subject to him, so that they may learn the difference between serving me and serving the kings of other lands.

Observation: Praise God, there is a difference!!! What a difference it is!!! What a blessing it is to us when we can learn about the difference from others rather than needing to learn it personally.

I remember two platoon commanders I served under in Viet Nam. One cared about his men, spoke out for them, did his best to get what we needed. The other one used us, volunteered us to take on every patrol. Our every accomplishment was a mark toward his advancement. In serving under the first, the men served willingly and did their best to make their commander look good. In serving under the second, the men did a lot of complaining and did not have their heart in their assignments.

Application: There is no question; I am called to be a servant. I am seeing it is much better to serve One who loves me rather than to serve one who is using me.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I know you designed me to be your child, but it is such a great honor and privilege to serve you and your Son, Jesus. He is my Lord! Amen