Did I Do That?
Devotional Scripture
1 Peter 1:14-16 (MSG) … Don’t lazily slip back into those old grooves of evil, doing just what you feel like doing. You didn’t know any better then; you do now. As obedient children, let yourselves be pulled into a way of life shaped by God’s life, a life energetic and blazing with holiness. God said, “I am holy; you be holy.”
Reflection – The Winslows
In the 90's, there was a popular sitcom entitled, Family Matters. This show featured an African-American traditional family and their daily life situations. The husband, Carl was employed as a police officer and the wife, Harriet was gainfully employed as well. They had three children and various family members resided in the same home. The show depicted a wholesome, practical family environment. The highlight of the show was founded in the relationship this family developed with their neighbor by the name of Stephen Q. Erkel. Steve Erkel’s presence brought calamity, chaos and destruction while developing a loving connection between the Winslow Family and Steve. Every episode included a disastrous situation which included Steve Erkel. As a result of his presence, the members of the Winslow family experienced disaster after disaster. Steve’s clumsiness combined with his infatuation of the eldest daughter of the family caused much grief and frustration. Although it was very clear to others that Steve’s presence was the reason for all of the mishaps, Steve, himself never understood that he was the cause of them. Every time something happened as a result of Steve’s presence, he would confusingly say, “Did I do that?” This phrase became a famous phrase which defined Steve’s character. He was oblivious to the things he was capable of. He had no idea that although he was a scholarly genius, he was also very clumsy, irresponsible, and immature. Everyone else knew it-but he had no clue.
Revelation – Self-Evaluation
In our scripture, Peter warns the reader to be careful not to “slip back” into old habits. He encourages the reader to remain focused on the new person and the gifts that have been bestowed upon him or her as a result of his or her relationship with Jesus Christ. He tells the reader to be careful to understand who he or she is in Christ. The Christian must understand that he or she is charged to remain holy as God is holy. Peter reminds the reader that he or she has gained a deeper level of knowledge in Christ than they had before they received the salvation.
It is easy to slip back into a life of sinful acts. Since there is no person who monitors our actions, we must depend on the Holy Spirit to lead, guide and convict us at all times. Our level of maturity dictates the activities of our Christian lives. It must be noted that there are many people who are in denial or simply oblivious (like Steve Erkel) about their actual Christian level of maturity. Many times, we may (intentionally or unintentionally) misinterpret what the Holy Spirit says regarding our actions. Our own intellect, past experiences and conscience often gets confused with the voice of the Holy Spirit within us. This misinterpretation may cause us to make wrong decisions. Other times, we simply disregard the standards by which Christians should conduct themselves. As a result, we may find ourselves saying the same thing that Steve Erkle said, “Did I do that?” We must take time to really evaluate ourselves and understand our strengths and weaknesses. This will help us to remain holy as God is holy.
Reaction-I Messed Up…Now What?
Ok…so you messed up. It is good that you have realized it. The good news is that God is full of grace, mercy and love. Admitting our wrongdoings and asking for forgiveness from God is the key to receiving the acceptance that we seek from God (the church word is REPENT.) You have another chance to make things right again. God loves you and He values who you are. After all, He made you right? So, it is time to take a self evaluation and be real with yourself about who you are. For example, if you are a person who has been freed from alcohol addiction, then it would be wise to stay away from activities which may tempt you to drink. If you want to lose weight, then it may be wise not to walk down the candy aisle at the grocery store. If you struggle with anger, then why do you continue to place yourself in situations which cause you to flip out on people? I think you get the picture. Take time to think about who you are and how to be a better you! Be aware of what you are doing and most of all what you are capable of.
Self-Evaluation Questions:
Do you know your spiritual gifts? (If so, what are they?)
What are some areas where you find yourself slipping?
How can you remain holy as God is Holy?
Prayer
Lord, thank you for your word! Thank you for being a God of grace and mercy. Please forgive me for all of the things that I have done which are not pleasing to you. Help me to remain focused on the things that you have for me. Walk with me and guide me through this thing called life! In Jesus’ name, Amen.
_________________________________________________________________________________________
About the Destiny Journal Author
Minister Charlene Alexander Robbins is the Founder of Virtuous Insight Life & Destiny Coaching. Minister Robbins’ creativity has allowed her to be a blessing to many different ministries. She is also the Owner/Operator of CR Technologies which is a desktop publishing company and enjoys serving at her local church Friendship Christian Church, Gastonia, NC as well. Click here to view a complete bio for Minister Robbins.
