Thursday, June 19, 2014

By: Brandon Bilbo

Bold Moves

Matthew 7:7 Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.

One morning on our way to church, we discovered a sign by a florist shop that put the BIGGEST smiles on our faces. It was bold, sweet and left us so curious to know the outcome. Are YOU curious yet?

It read, "Kayla Fon, will you go to prom with me? Love, Alex" (names modified). This sign sat at a major intersection in our city. We never did find out the outcome of Alex's request, but we are still impressed by this teenager's boldness.

High school can already be a terrifying place for many teens. Yet, this young man laid it ALL on the line FOR THE WORLD TO SEE!

In encouraging others to take a leap of faith or make a request, we often say things like, "What's the worst they could say...no?"

However, for many, that two-letter word keeps us from potential raises, promotions, relationships, leadership roles...the list could go on and on... Why is that little word so powerful? Well, let's be honest...attached to "NO" is often rejection and pride.

I'm sure those thoughts ran through Alex's head, "What if she says no? What if the other guys at school see this and mock me? What if???" Likely--by his bold move--he must have recognized that the potential prize far exceeded his pride.

Is your pride keeping you from a potential blessing in your life?

Proverbs 18:12 encourages us that "...humility precedes honor." When we humble ourselves and worry less about what others think and more about what God thinks, we are inspired to "ask" for those things that could potentially change the direction of our lives and our family's lives.

I challenge you today to never allow pride to dictate your future. John

16:24, reveals, "Until now you have not asked for anything in My Name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete."

Dear Lord, I thank You that I can ask You for anything, and if it's according to Your will, You will supply that need. You are such a loving Father!

I thank You, my Jesus, for dying for me. I believe that You are Lord and that God raised You from the grave so that I can have eternal life. 

Reflection: Have I allowed pride to keep me from great opportunities?