Put Into Practice

Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me – put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. – (Philippians 4:9, NIV)

Put into practice what you learned from me, what you heard and saw and realized. Do that, and God, who makes everything work together, will work you into His most excellent harmonies. – (Philippians 4:9, MSG)

 

I had two incredibly proud mom moments last evening, as I recognized the reality of this verse lived out in the lives of both of my boys. First, the orchestra teacher began to speak of a student who had overcome the struggle of learning his music as he had gone on and memorized nearly every piece they played. His perseverance and positivity were commended as he received one of the most-improved musician awards. After watching my eldest progeny go forward to receive his award, the same instructor began speaking of a young man who worked hard everyday, greeted her with kindness daily, and always offered a helping hand. He too was being recognized for the same such award, with no sense of obligation to reward the second son because he was in the family, rather it was all because of the merit of his character. I was blown away… Both boys had left a mark in a space that they have loved throughout their middle school careers. Each one chose to commit to their craft and care well for those around them in the process, and as a result, were being seen as the upstanding young men that they have become. Both boys were blown away by being seen, and I imagine the moment will be forever marked in their memories.

A take-away from the evening was the reminder of how important it is to let kids know that we see their hard work. Acknowledging them in their struggle to persevere can make all of the difference, and when they have seen a challenge through to completion – celebrate! May we see the success stories all around us in this season of graduations and new beginnings. Let our lives mirror that of our Maker, so that we may put into practice, His ways, allowing our words and deeds to deliver peace in places that need it most.

 

Let all that’s been learned,

Received from the Lord;

Be set in practice,

Honor the Adored.

For as we obey,

Operate in peace;

God’s glory and grace,

Are through Him, released.

May His love be known,

By all who draw near;

Together we come,

As He removes fear.

 

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You show us, teach us, and speak to us, the things that You want us to learn from You. Thank You that when we put these things into practice, we discover Your peace. Forgive us for not acting on the things that You have shown us, and ending up unsettled, wondering why we can’t find Your peace. Teach us to trust You more, so that we would seek You and find You in every situation and circumstance, no matter how challenging. Thank You that You are far greater than anything we face. Lead us to love others well, especially those who are in a space of transition or on the cusp of new beginnings. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we put into practice that which we have learned, received or heard from You. Amen.

© Shannon Elizabeth Moreno and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present

Answer me, O Lord, out of the goodness of Your love; in Your great mercy turn to me. – Psalm 69:16