INITIATIVE
WHY IS INITIATIVE OFTEN A POSITIVE CHARACTER QUALITY?
BIBLE READING: Genesis 13:1-18
KEY BIBLE VERSE: Abram talked it over with Lot. “This arguing between our herdsmen has got to stop,” he said. “After all, we are close relatives!” (Genesis 13:8)
INITIATIVE IS TAKING RESPONSIBILITY FOR SOLVING A PROBLEM.
Facing a potential conflict with his nephew Lot, Abram took the initiative in settling the dispute. He gave Lot first choice, even though Abram, being older, had the right to choose first. Abram also showed a willingness to risk being cheated. Abram’s example shows us how to respond to difficult family situations: (1) take the initiative in resolving conflicts; (2) let others have first choice, even if that means not getting what we want; (3) put family peace above personal desires.
BIBLE READING: Ruth 2:1-13
KEY BIBLE VERSE: One day Ruth said to Naomi, “Let me go out into the fields to gather leftover grain behind anyone who will let me do it.” And Naomi said, “All right, my daughter, go ahead.” (Ruth 2:2)
TRUSTING GOD INCLUDES TAKING INITIATIVE.
Ruth made her home in a foreign land. Instead of depending on Naomi or waiting for good fortune to happen, she took the initiative. She went to work. She was not afraid of admitting her need or working hard to supply it. When Ruth went out to the fields, God provided for her. If you are waiting for God to provide, consider this: He may be waiting for you to take the first step to demonstrate just how important your need is.
TAKING INITIATIVE OPENS DOORS.
Ruth’s task, though menial, tiring, and perhaps degrading, was done faithfully. What is your attitude when the task you have been given is not up to your true potential? The task at hand may be all you can do, or it may be the work God wants you to do. Or, as in Ruth’s case, it may be a test of your character that can open up new doors of opportunity.
BIBLE READING: Joshua 3:1-17
KEY BIBLE VERSE: Now it was the harvest season, and the Jordan was overflowing its banks. But as soon as the feet of the priests who were carrying the Ark touched the water at the river’s edge, the water began piling up at a town upstream called Adam, which is near Zarethan. And the water below that point flowed on to the Dead Sea until the riverbed was dry. Then all the people crossed over near the city of Jericho. (Joshua 3:15-16)
INITIATIVE CAN DEMONSTRATE FAITH.
The Israelites were eager to enter the Promised Land, conquer nations, and live peacefully. But first they had to cross the flood-level waters of the Jordan River. God gave them specific instructions: in order to cross, the priests had to step into the water. What if these priests had been afraid to take that first step? Often God provides no solution to our problems until we trust him and move ahead with what we know we should do. What are the rivers, or obstacles, in your life? In obedience to God, take that first step into the water.