Daily Devotional

-September 16, 2021-

Good morning, happy Thursday,

-Showing Good Conduct According To God’s Wisdom-

“Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by his good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom.”

(James 3:13).

Every believer in Jesus Christ should strive for good conduct for the Lord. God’s wisdom helps us to be faithful to Him in all we do. The word conduct means, “The manner in which a person behaves, especially on a particular occasion or in a particular context.”

We represent the Lord Jesus in this world. Our conduct will either draw people to Christ or push them away from Him, depending how we live our lives. In order to have an impact on people we must live a godly life before them. There is a beautiful poem by Edgar A. Guest, entitled, “I Rather See A Sermon” that says, “I’d rather see a sermon than hear one any day; I’d rather one should walk with me than merely tell the way. The eye’s a better pupil and more willing than the ear, Fine counsel is confusing, but example’s always clear; And best of all the preachers are the men who live their creeds, for to see good put to action is what everybody needs.”

It is easy to talk the talk, but harder and much more blessed to walk the talk. When we show good conduct it reflects upon our Savior. Just knowing that our good conduct is pleasing to the Lord should be enough for us. We know however that Jesus will reward us at the Judgment Seat Of Christ. It will be so glorious to hear His words, “Well done, My good and faithful servant.” He will give us crowns for our service rendered with the right attitude.

The armed forces have what is called the Good Conduct Medal, which is one of the oldest in United States Armed forces. The criteria for this medal as defined by Executive orders, is it awarded to any active duty enlisted member of the United States military who completes three (or until 1996 in the Navy, four) consecutive years of “honorable and faithful service.” Such service implies that a standard enlistment was completed without any non-judicial punishment, disciplinary infractions, or court martial offenses. If a service member commits an offense, the three year mark “resets” and a service member must perform three additional years of service without having to be disinclined, before the Good Conduct may be authorized. During times of war it may be awarded for one year of faithful service. It may also be awarded posthumously, to any service member killed in the line of duty.

May the Lord help us to be loyal, faithful servants for Him, showing good conduct according God’s wisdom. We do this not just for three years, but for our whole lives on earth. Let others see Jesus in our actions, not just our words. People would rather see a sermon than hear one any day.

Have a blessed day living your life for the Lord in good conduct that points people to Jesus. Stay safe and healthy.

In His grace,

Dean