What about Me? by B J Bassett #Devotional #SundayThoughts

 

The older brother stalked off in an angry sulk and refused to join in. Luke 15:28 MSG

 

I struggled with the prodigal son Bible story for years because I was like the older brother. I identified with the older brother and always believed he was in the right. I tried to be obedient, honor my parents, and do the right thing so I would receive praise.

 

Later, I realized I was prideful, so I worked on my self-righteousness. It’s my flaw. I’d give it to God, and before I knew it, I grabbed it back again, like a yo-yo.

 

The older brother missed the party because he stood outside in the dark, sulking while everyone was inside enjoying themselves.

 

How often have our pride and self-righteousness left us outside, standing in the cold, missing out on a celebration?

 

The story is a perfect example of our Heavenly Father. He leaves all the sheep grazing in the pasture to go after the lost one.

Father, I come to you once again, seeking forgiveness for my self-righteousness. Change me, Lord, I pray. Amen.

 

Reprinted from

The King’s Daughters—

A Women’s Devotional

By BJ Bassett

B. J. Bassett encourages others as an author, teacher and speaker. Her books include a contemporary novel, Gillian’s Heart; a historical novel Lily; Sweet Charity; A Touch of Grace—The G.R.A.C.E. Ministries Story; and coauthor of a children’s devotional My Time with God, Focus on the Family, Heritage Builders, with over 55,000 copies sold.

 

As a contributing writer, publications consist of Writer’s Handbook 2000, The Writer, and The Focus on the Family Guide to Growing a Healthy Home, Wolgemuth& Hyatt, Publishers, Inc.—consistently on Bookstore Journal’s Best-selling Christian Books List from November 1990 - February 1991, and voted the 10 Best Books for 1990 by Today’s Christian Woman.

 

Magazines, devotional booklets, curriculum and newspaper publishers include Focus on the Family, Woman’s World, The Quiet Hour, Pathways to God, Devotions, Harcourt Brace, WordAction, Gospel Publishing and Times Standard (newspaper).

 

She teaches writing workshops at Umpqua Community College, Roseburg, OR and at writer’s conferences. As a speaker for Stonecroft Ministries, she tells her story of rejection and acceptance, not only in life, but as a writer as well. She also offers book talks, including discussion questions and shares the journey -- from the seed of an idea to a published book.

 

Memberships: ACFW and Oregon Christian Writers (OCW).

 

She enjoys reading, jigsaw puzzles, knitting, munching warm scones oozing with butter and strawberry jam and sipping earl grey tea.