Honest Gain

 

Many years ago I used to be quite the swindler. As a young man, I stole from many places. I would lie and deceive more often than I would like to confess. The worst thing of all was that I was good at it. Very good. I would do anything and everything to throw circumstances in my favor, for my own gain and most people were always entirely unaware.

Fast forward so many years now to a life of freedom from that sin and bondage. A seared conscience could no longer tolerate such behavior now. It seems that I’m regularly given small tests though. Incorrect change at the store. Overlooked items when checking out, that were missed. Today, of course, I casually take the necessary time to go back and make things right. I don’t have the desire to get unfair gain anymore. I simply don’t want to deceive and profit unfairly.

I face the same ongoing challenges with running my own business. I deliberately choose to always be sure that I’m honoring Yahweh well, whether others will ever know it or not.

So, when I read Proverbs chapter 20 this morning, I was reminded of how I’ve been changed. I forget sometimes. How about you? Let us take the time to remember Father’s wonderful works in our lives. Let us take the time to rejoice in the ongoing work that is our sanctification into the likeness of His Son.