Tag: Given Much

Luke 12:48 – Abundance of Knowledge

But the one who does not know and does things deserving punishment will be beaten with few blows. From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked. Luke 12:48

Sometimes, you have to embody the words you preach! 

Yesterday, I contacted a business regarding an issue with one of their products. In my first call, I spoke with a young Black woman. While she was managing my account, I shared my thoughts concerning the current situation in the U.S. Unfortunately, the call dropped, and I had to contact the company again to resolve the issue. Interestingly,  the second representative I spoke to was a White woman. She started the conversation off on a sour note! Frustrated with her attitude, I requested a transfer, but she told me I had no choice but to continue speaking with her. In response, I said I would hang up and call back. I did just that! On my third call, I talked to another Black woman. I got straight to the point because I didn’t want the call to drop, and while she was assisting me, we discussed something that prompted her to say, “I live in a poor state.” The way she expressed it made me feel she felt trapped.   We managed to resolve the issue, and the call ended with pleasantries and her feeling unheard regarding a personal disappointment.

To my surprise, she called me on her cell phone! I answered. I usually don’t answer calls unless I recognize the number or anticipate a business inquiry. Our conversation was brief, but nothing I said seemed to alleviate the pain she was expressing. Her responses made it evident that she felt isolated in her struggles as if she were the only one experiencing what she was going through.

This morning, I received a message that my Facebook page was scheduled for permanent removal due to trademark violations. A Meta’s customer service representative offered me the option to file a complaint, but I have none—it’s their business and their rules. I chose to move forward calmly. Although I was surprised that the email didn’t specify the content that was being violated, I responded that I respect others’ rights and understand Facebook/Meta must act in their interests. With that said, “Black Women Have It Going On” remains true regardless of the status of a Facebook page. Let’s pray!

PRAYER

Father God, I express my gratitude for the ability to read, understand, and the freedom to articulate my thoughts. I ask that I never intentionally use my blessings to harm others, regardless of whether they deserve such a response. I urge you to visit every workplace and bring forth the spirit of peace, freeing individuals who feel trapped, believing their current position is the ultimate goal. Show them the many opportunities that await. Amen

Praying Luke 12:48

But the one who does not know and does things deserving punishment will be beaten with few blows. From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked. Luke 12:48 NIV

This weekend was exhausting! I encountered family conflict while trying to help a loved one achieve a more positive outcome. Unfortunately, I often ignore signs that my help isn’t needed because I see the unmet need or needs. And this weekend wasn’t different when it comes to how I spring into action when a loved one is having a hard time.  After my feelings were hurt once again, I began to question why I help those who don’t want my help, even though they need it!  Because it’s not like I don’t have tasks to start and finish in my own life. Yet!  Out of gratitude for the blessings I’ve received from God and others, I’ve tried to help people without regard for the harm I may sustain, and, without fail, I always end up emotionally drained.  Between you and me, I know that God doesn’t want His children to be unperceptive to how our actions impact our lives.  He says, “After you have done all that you can do, stand therefore and know that I am God.”  Let’s pray!

PRAYER

Lord, I’m here again in a public space, offering a heartfelt prayer. This past weekend provided me and many others a valuable opportunity to reflect on our actions. Today, I lift up prayers for those who share my spirit, striving to assist those with unmet needs, especially when the person in need may feel that everything is fine. Often, those who oppose our help express their concerns quite vocally and might even convey their frustrations in a hurtful manner. Their sometimes kind yet bitter words can truly sting! So today, Lord, I pray that we hear from you. Please help me and others navigate these feelings and grant us your divine guidance to know when to offer assistance, share your truth, or simply stand in awe, acknowledging that you are indeed God. Amen.