Read: mark 7:14-23

All these evil things come from within and defile a man. -Mark 7:23

During one of his services, Hudson Taylor, pioneer missionary to China, filled a glass
with water and placed it on a table in front of him. While he was speaking, he pounded his
fist hard enough to make the water splash onto the table. He then explained, "You
will come up against much trouble. But when you do, remember, only what’s in you will
spill out."

That’s worth thinking about isn’t it? When we are mistreated or
misunderstood, how do we respond? With loving words, patience, and kindness? Or are we
inclined to retaliate in anger?

In Ephesians 4:17-32, we see the contrast between what a person is before he is saved
and what he is afterward. When we live under the control of the Holy Spirit, we will show
it by the way we react to the jolting trials and temptations of live. How we respond to
trying, embarrassing situations that are suddenly thrust upon us is a good test of how
much we have grown in grace.

It is possible to suppress frustration and anger and to appear undisturbed. But if our
heart is full of the Savior’s love, we will respond to the jostling of an unexpected
trial with patience and kindness. Like a full glass of water, what’s inside of us
will spill over on the outside.

• Richard W. De Haan

Lord, help me flee all sin and shame,

Lest I disgrace Your holy name;

And may I live that all may see

The Savior’s love revealed in me. -DJD

WHEN TROUBLE GROWS,

YOUR CHARACTER SHOWS.

OUR DAILY BREAD, Copyright 1999 by Radio Bible Class, Grand Rapids,Michigan. Used by
permission.

• Geo –

Edwardsburg, MI