Open Heart Open Home

Our houseguest had a close relative in town who told me he would be honored to have our guest stay with them. After several days, I began to wonder why the guest didn't go stay with his relative.

I remembered that God's Word instructs me to show hospitality without grumbling. And that means not to grumble in my thoughts, too.

So I prayed, "Okay, Lord, since You know my thoughts, I guard my thoughts and spirit. I will welcome him." And I did.

The next morning I was again tempted to feel resentful of this guest who I felt should be staying with his relative. I slipped out of the house to a quiet place and said, "Lord, all I care about is Your approval and Your smile on my attitude. Thank You for Your grace."

I walked back into the house at peace with whatever God allowed. To my surprise, that morning the guest announced he was leaving.

God is in control of our guest list; he guards their coming in and going out. If I trust Him to protect my schedule, He will when I respond in obedience by guarding my attitude.

Thank You, Jesus, for not letting me get by with a wrong spirit and for giving grace to be hospitable.

"When God's children are in need, be the one to help them out. And get into the habit of inviting guests home for dinner or, if they need lodging, for the night" (Romans 12:13 NLT).

"Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling" (1 Peter 4:9).

Aletha