Dear Ones,
Hope you have a blessed day. I plan to study, make apple crisp and cookies and later Bible study here….and did I mention it’s Donut Day?!
Devotions from Judy’s heart
When we attend funerals of loved ones, there is usually mention of their accomplishments in life but more words are spoken about their character. Who were they in this life and how did they use the gifts that were given them? We usually go home thinking about their kindness, integrity and maybe their generosity. More importantly: were they loving and caring with a willingness to serve others?

Character matters more than what we accomplish in life, and God places the most emphasis on who we are at heart. God gives each one of us gifts, but if they are not used for Him and in the right way they can actually be a stumbling block. That’s why God often takes us through times of testing so that he can refine us and smooth down our rough edges that, of course, we all have. It is out of love that He points out to us these things that need attention so that we can be changed, growing more like Him and bearing fruit.

Not all people are willing to change and may excuse themselves by saying, “This is just the way I am! Leave it or lump it!” But if we are open to let the Lord reveal our areas that need help, He will refine us that we may come through the purifying process as gold. Sometimes He uses other people in our lives for that refining process, like an employer supervising us, or a good friend who speaks truth. Wise King Solomon said in Proverbs 27:17 & 19, “As, iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens the wits of another… As a face is reflected in water so a person is reflected by his heart.”

Since character really matters, may we us say, “Yes, Lord.” when He is working on our rough edges, that His beauty may be seen in us.

Challenge for today: When going through times of testing, ask the Lord what you need to learn from it and be cooperative!
Blessings on your day and prayers and love, Judy