My Aunt Josie recently shared a story about her childhood that resonated with me. When she was young, Josie enjoyed browsing through the pages of the Sears, Roebuck & Co. catalogue, intrigued by the vast array of items offered. At this early age, it was toys and not tools that captured her interest.
Thumbing through the catalog, Josie found a doll she desperately wanted to have for her very own. It was a Little Lord Fauntleroy doll dressed in a black velvet suit with a white shirt and ruffled collar. As Christmas was months away, she diligently began her campaign to make sure her parents were aware of her desire. She showed her parents the doll and pointed to the catalogue number which was 18T311.
Aunt Josie confessed that she misbehaved quite often. Whenever she displayed a bad attitude or behavior, her parents would calmly remind her of what was at stake. All they had to say to warn her was "18T311". The catalog number reminder was the only incentive needed to snap Josie out of her bad behavior!
This past week, Pastor Joel reminded us of how important it is to study God's Word. 2 Timothy:16-17 declares, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work". Pastor Joel encouraged us to meditate on and memorize Scripture. Just like Josie's parents reminded her of what was at stake, the Holy Spirit can remind us what is at stake. When our desires drive us from God instead of to God, we forfeit blessings.
The Holy Spirit can whisper Words from the treasure stored in our hearts to help us in our hour of need, warning and encouraging us to turn to the Source of Life. When our behaviors need adjusting, temptation is calling or circumstances overwhelm us, God's Word can change our attitude to one of victory in Christ.
