“A merry heart does good, like medicine, but a broken spirit dries the bones.” – Proverbs 17:22 (NKJV)
Mark and Thom were identical twins in every sense possible, which made it difficult for people to tell them apart. Both young men also demonstrated great zeal for the things of God. Their affectionate personality won many hearts, causing much adoration.
One day, Thom was chosen to oversee an important task. For the first time in twenty-five years, this had occurred. This assignment, however, revealed the differences in their identities and characters, as the true condition of one of their hearts was exposed.
While Thom continued to walk in humility and serve diligently, Mark became jealous and disgruntled. This led him to walk away from God, as he found it difficult to accept that he was not chosen for the task. He was led by his ego.
Brethren, daily we see this attitude exhibited in our local churches, where persons refuse to celebrate and support others who may not fit their narrative. And like Mark, they become resentful. If this mindset and attitude are not put in check, one can shipwreck their own salvation or cause a brother or sister to step away from Christ (leading to “woe” for them – Matthew 18:6-7).
The Word of God admonishes in Philippians 2:3 (NKJV): “Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself.” Therefore, for you and me to truly enjoy our heavenly Father’s benefits in this Christian walk, we need to daily repent and deny self, and seek the help of the Holy Spirit to keep our minds stayed on Christ.
I pray that we daily strive to inculcate a Christ-like attitude for the well-being of ourselves and fellow saints.
Read: Psalm 17:15; Colossians 3:12
Bible Reading Guide: Proverbs 11:9-18; John 4:1-26; Judges 1; Judges 2:1-5