Avoid the Trap of Scheming and Focus on Your Own Success

Proverbs 24: 8-9 - "The one who plans to do evil will be called a schemer. The devising of folly is sin, and the scoffer is an abomination to mankind."

1. Focus on your own goals and achievements instead of trying to bring others down.

2. Remember that jealousy and spite will only hinder your own progress in the long run.

3. Work towards building yourself up rather than tearing others down.

4. Practice gratitude and celebrate the success of others, knowing that there is enough room for everyone to succeed.

5. Trust in God's timing and plan for your life, knowing that He has a unique path for each of us.

Dear Lord, help me to let go of any feelings of jealousy or resentment towards others. Teach me to focus on my own path and to trust in your plan for my life. May I strive for success with honesty and integrity, knowing that your blessings are abundant for all who seek them. Amen.

My story

Once upon a time, there was a young woman named Emily who had big dreams of starting her own business. She had a passion for baking and wanted to open a bakery where she could share her delicious treats with the world.

Instead of trying to cut corners or manipulate her way to success, Emily decided to trust in God's leading and rely on His guidance to help her achieve her goals. She prayed for wisdom and discernment as she took the necessary steps to turn her dream into a reality.

Emily worked hard to perfect her recipes and create a warm and inviting atmosphere in her bakery. She treated her customers with kindness and respect, knowing that building trust and forming genuine relationships would lead to long-term success.

As word spread about Emily's delectable baked goods and exceptional customer service, her business began to thrive. People from all over town would come to her bakery to indulge in her treats and enjoy the inviting ambiance she had created.

Through it all, Emily remained humble and grateful, recognizing that her success was not solely the result of her own efforts, but also a reflection of God's guidance and provision. She continued to trust in His leading, knowing that He would always provide for her and lead her on the path to success.

And so, Emily's bakery flourished, not through scheming or manipulation, but through a steadfast faith in God's plan and a commitment to integrity and hard work. She became an inspiration to others, showing that with trust in God's leading, anything is possible.

Comments

The Firm Foundation of Faith

## The Firm Foundation of Faith **Scripture:** Hebrews 11:1 "Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see." **Thought:** Life's journey is often marked by uncertainty and challenges. This faith allows us to persevere, knowing that God is working, even when we can't see the immediate results. It empowers us to step forward with courage, knowing we're not alone. Embracing this understanding allows us to live with a peace that surpasses all understanding, a peace rooted in the unshakeable truth of God's love and faithfulness. **Action Plan:** Spend 15 minutes today in quiet meditation on Hebrews 11. Reflect on a specific area in your life where you need to strengthen your faith. **Prayer:** Heavenly Father, I come before You today acknowledging my need for a stronger faith. Help me to truly grasp the meaning of Hebrews 11:1, to trust in Your promises even when I cannot see the outcome. In Jesus’ name, Amen. My story Th...

Restoring Relationships

Last Tuesday, during Eskom’s Stage 6 load-shedding, I sat in my dimly lit Akasia living room, staring at a WhatsApp message from my cousin Thabo. Our once-close bond had fractured over a political debate—ANC vs. EFF—that spiraled into personal jabs. His text read: *“You’ve become a coconut, bra. Black on the outside, white-washed inside.”* My reply? A venomous *“At least I’m not a populist clown.”* Pride, that sly serpent, had coiled around our tongues. But as the generator hummed and my coffee cooled, Colossians 3:13 flickered in my mind like a candle in the dark: *“Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”* Unconditional. No asterisks. No “but he started it.” Just grace. **II. The Theology of Broken Pipes** South Africa knows fractures. Our Vaal River, choked by sewage and neglect, mirrors relational toxicity—grievances left to fester. Yet, Christ’s forgiveness isn’t a passive drip; it’s a flash flood. To “bear with one another” (Colossians 3:13) is to choo...

The Power of the Mundane

## The Power of the Mundane **Scripture:** "And not a sparrow falls to the ground apart from your Father's will. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are more valuable than many sparrows." - Matthew 10:29-31 **Thought:** We often focus on the big moments, the grand gestures, believing those are the only things that truly matter to God. But Jesus reminds us that He cares deeply for even the smallest details of our lives. The way we approach our daily tasks, the words we speak, the thoughts we harbor – all of it is important. God sees it all, and He values each detail. This understanding empowers us to see purpose in the mundane, to find meaning in the seemingly insignificant. **Action Plan:** Today, choose one small task that you typically rush through or do without much thought. As you do it, consciously pause and offer it as a prayer to God. Thank Him for the opportunity to serve Him, even in this seemingly insignificant act. **...

HAROLD MAWELA

Search This Blog