Day 04 of 31
Painful but Helpful
The truth that wounds and heals
Today's Scripture
“The words of the wise are like cattle prods—painful but helpful.”
Opening thought
Very often, the most helpful things in life are painful. Take quinine, for instance. It is very bitter in the mouth, but once swallowed, it helps the body fight malaria. Think also about exercise. It can be very painful, yet it is one of the secrets of healthy living. No pain, no gain.
The devotional message
Wise Words Are Like Cattle Prods
Today's Scripture tells us that wise words are like cattle prods. Cattle prods are sticks that herders use to make their cattle move. They strike the cattle with the stick, and this helps to direct the animals' movement. Prods are very helpful to farmers and herders, but painful to the animals.
Wise words may hurt. They are truth in a capsule. Truth gets people offended and irritated. It separates friends and can even cause a person to lose companions. But it is helpful. It saves when it is swallowed.
The Truth That Sets You Free
Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life..." (John 14:6, KJV). Only the truth you have heard and received has the capacity to set you free.
Do you want to be set free? Take the painful step of saying yes to Jesus. Do not delay your salvation. Let go of that shame. Take a leap of faith.
Today's quote
Only the truth you have heard and received has the capacity to set you free.
Reflect on the Word
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Can you recall a time when a hard word of truth hurt you but later helped you?
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Is there a truth from God's Word you have been resisting because it is uncomfortable?
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What shame might be holding you back from saying yes to Jesus?
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Put it into practice
Closing prayer
Lord, thank You for the words of truth that correct and direct me, even when they are painful. Give me a humble heart to receive them. Jesus, You are the way, the truth, and the life. I say yes to You today. Take away my shame and help me to take this step of faith. In Jesus' name, amen.
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