Be Fruitful Where You're Planted

south ridge church

Sep 28

(Begin with 1-2 minutes of silence)

Daniel 5:29 Daniel …was proclaimed the third highest ruler…

With what we know from the Book of Daniel as well as history and archaeology, Daniel lived and served as part of the Babylonian government for decades. It's likely that he served in some kind of official capacity for at least 5 or 6 different rulers throughout his lifetime.

Remember, Daniel and others from Israel were living in exile during this time. Daniel was working in some kind of official capacity for an empire that has overthrown the people of God. Yet despite the circumstances, Daniel remained faithful to God and seemingly found favor in the eyes of each of the kings. (As we'll see in Daniel 6, Daniel continues to find favor in the eyes of the next king as well.)

The life of Daniel is one that reveals that we are called to be fruitful wherever we are planted. God has placed you in your family, your school, your place of employment, and more. Do not pour energy into trying to influence people outside your circle. Instead, focus your energies on being fruitful in the places in which God has planted you.

READING & PRAYERS:

JOHN 15:1-17, COLOSSIANS 1:10, MATTHEW 7:17-20 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)

QUESTION: Have you considered that you may be spending energy, trying to be fruitful in areas God has not called you to? What would it look like for you, today, to be fruitful exactly where you are?

REAL LIFE PRACTICE: As you pray today, spend an equal amount of time listening to God as you spend talking to God. Perhaps listen even longer. Consider making this a part of your daily practices so you can discern God's voice more clearly.

Take a Step: Remember to continue utilizing the One Minute Pause app throughout the week. If possible, begin to explore and practice the 3, 5 or 10 minute pause to more deeply root yourself in Christ.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I confess there are many situations and/or people throughout my daily life in which I want to be in control. Today is a reminder that You are in control, not me. Help me to be fruitful right where I am. To reflect Your love onto the world around me. In Jesus' name. Amen.

(End with 1-2 minutes of silence)