July 17th

July 17th

Read: Phil. 1:6 and Phil. 2:5-8 and Phil. 3:10-14

My father used to say that he graduated from the school of hard knocks. He did not graduate from High School, but was a hard worker all of his life. He learned carpentry and was an avid hunter and fisherman. Even his leisure hours contributed to the welfare of our family. If he had some hard knocks, we kids never heard him complain.

Now that I have lived longer myself, I realize that he was speaking about the school of experience. In life there are lessons to learn each day from what happens to us. In the Christian life the lessons are taught by the Master Teacher who uses not only experiences but also His Holy Spirit to bring the lessons home. I am thankful for my Teacher.

MASTER’S DEGREE
Each day with my Lord is a lesson,
A course He designed just for me.
He opens my eyes to horizons
Beyond any earthly degree.

He teaches that love is the answer
To sorrow and trouble I see. I learn at the feet of the Master
The lesson of humility.

I’m tested `gainst His own example,
Obedient Love’s agony,
And discover that though will is ample,
My flesh fails at such charity.

The mind of my Lord is enigma.
I won’t know His purpose for me
Until I receive my diploma
And pass into eternity.

Prayer: Dear Master, thank You for teaching me of Yourself and Your ways.