Take every opportunity to steward...............

'...Watch out that no...bitterness grows up...' Hebrews 12:15

Betrayal is something others do to you; bitterness is something you do to yourself. It's impossible to go through life without being hurt. It may be an unfaithful mate, an employee who slanders you or a boss who fires you without explanation. Sitting at supper with His disciples, Jesus said, 'One of you will betray me' (Mark 14:18 NIV). Shortly after that, Judas betrayed Him with a kiss. Some folks will kiss you today and kick you tomorrow. But Jesus refused to become bitter. That's because He knew Judas' kiss would usher Him into His destiny. Nor did Jesus turn His back on Peter when he denied Him. Instead, Peter was the only one He mentioned by name when He arranged to meet His disciples for breakfast following the resurrection. Jesus saw people in the light of their potential, not their problems. What they were at that moment didn't keep Him from s eeing what they would become when His grace touched their lives. And you must be that way too. This is why Paul wrote: 'Get rid of all bitterness... Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you' (Ephesians 4:31-32 NLT). So eliminate any words of bitterness from your conversation. Stop rehearsing the details o f your past unless it's to teach and encourage others to rise above theirs. How often do you revisit your old issues? What are you doing to make sure no bitterness remains in your heart? God says, 'Do not remember the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing' (Isaiah 43:18-19 NKJV). God's word is simply 'poetry in motion!  I just had to share this. At this time of the year at school we have some high school students in attendance at school in order to engage in some work experience.  It is always a timely initiative because we are totally snowed under, trying to round off a year whilst preparing for the next so the arrival of extra pairs of hands are warmly received.  I always start by chatting to them and establishing what they want to do during their time with us.  I don't want them to be out of their comfort zone, but at the same time allow them to experience aspects of teaching that I feel they would enjoy.  I have been blessed today with a young girl who is keen to do more than simple administrative tasks and she seemed to enjoy it.  It is always a privilege to steward young people and give them a positive experience that will leave a lasting memory and perhaps influence their choices, behaviour, ambitions and outlook on life and today (day 196) I am thankful to have been given such an opportunity.