Isn’t it funny how sometimes there are a ton more questions than answers? We know that God has promised to provide and sustain, yet we don’t see the interpretation of that the way we would like. He promised to not allow us to be squeezed till the popping point, but we feel the pressure. But, He is faithful. He is capable. And, He does care.
This week, I have heard from some friends (phone calls, emails, even facebook corespondance) that are sensing more challenges than usual. And, although I understand that these can be difficult times, I want to remind you that you are not alone and you can make it. I have learned in times of challenge that God is willing and able to come to my side and help me through. He will do the same for you.
The Bible points to God as a strongtower (”The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.” Psalm 9:9) who offers safety, protection, and rest.
If you are experiencing some challenges today, run into the Strongtower. He is big enough to protect you and loving enough to see you through.
I was thinking this morning about the journey of faith that I am on. I have come to the conclusion that Christianity is not complicated. It isn’t easy, but it isn’t complicated. I don’t need to know hundreds of principles and I don’t have to have supernatural skills to have a great spiritual life. I simply need to break it down and remain focused.
I really believe that if I do three things, my faith will flourish and I will be pleased. If I simply learn to love God, love others, and resist the devil everything will be good. So, as I am making plans for this weekend I am going to be intentional about those three simple things and see what happens.
I am going to focus on loving God. Even though my weekend is hectic, I am going to find time in the early mornings to enjoy His presence, read His book, and listen to His voice. When driving in the car, I am going to turn off the football game and put in some worship music. And, as I drift off to sleep I am going to be talking to and thinking about my Savior.
I am going to be very intentional about loving others. I am going to start with my family. I am going to go out of my way to convince my wife and each of my kids that they are special to me. I am going to give each one uninterrupted time doing what they want to do (you can bet I will be playing games with the girls and wrestling with the boys). Instead of sending them to clean their rooms, I am going to offer to help. I will not limit this to my family. I am going to hold the door for people as they enter and exit. I am going to smile at as many people as possible and keep my eyes open for those who need a kind word or some form of service.
And, I am going to resist the devil. I am going to reject selfishness because that is not God’s plan for my life. I am going to stand against temptation and make wise choices. I am going to be careful with what I watch and listen to because I know that is the best way to guard my heart. And, I am going to remember that I am a child of the King and that I have authority over the enemy.
Although they may not sound that impressive on paper (or on the computer screen) by being intentional about these three things, my faith will be strengthened. I will have the mind of Christ and have a faith that is pleasing both to the Lord and exciting to me. By focusing on these three things, I will become more like Jesus and less like me.
I am excited to see what God does in my life as I make this my pursuit.