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Better is a poor person who walks in his integrity than one who is crooked in speech and is a fool.  Proverbs 19:1 (ESV)

Ingrained in my mind as a child, I wouldn’t even take a penny off the street unless I was certain it belonged to me.  In first grade, I lost my ice cream money at school and when the teacher found a quarter near my desk, I refused to accept it.    I was the only one missing out on a delicious treat and tears welled up in my eyes, but I wasn’t convinced it was mine for the taking.

While most of us wouldn’t dare steal something that belongs to someone else – we still may harbor things in our lives.  How many times do we steal someone’s joy by sabotaging their victory?  How many times do we steal a pen from work – innocently dropping it into our purse?  How much time do we waste – stealing from our employer?  Have we ever stolen someone’s idea to make us look good?  How much time, resources, or talents do we waste in our lives stealing away from the purpose God created for us?

Steal no way – but when we examine these traits, we might find we have hinged on the verge of taking some things that don’t belong to us.  Stealing is saying God hasn’t provided what we need and demonstrates a lack of trust in Him.  It cheats us out of God’s best and leaves us wallowing in guilt with dirty hands.

Solution – simply accept what He has for us and seek His cleansing for wasted moments. Resist the urge to excuse away any careless actions.  Be the one that gives her all even if no one else is. Cheer others on rather than tear down their victory dance. Be honest regardless of who is watching.

“Father, purify our hearts and help us to examine our lives to ensure our trust is firmly planted in You.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life