Life
often throws us off center by confusion and catastrophe, which come when we
least expect it. We get disoriented and feel insecure and fearful, so we panic
and make poor decisions, reacting with negative emotions that create even more
problems.
Our
normally peaceful existence spins out of control, and each compartment of our
life, which we meticulously created to provide us with security and a safe haven,
suddenly tilts out of balance.
God
pulls out of us all of the roots of pride, selfishness and self-reliance that
prevent us from fully surrendering to Him. Initially, this pruning is
uncomfortable. However, ultimately, it frees us from the encumbrances of the
flesh and the world.
God
never forsakes those who seek Him. We know the power of His name, and we trust
only in Him (Psalm 9:10). Even in calamity, living with an eternal perspective
gives life all the vibrancy and fragrance of a blooming flower.
Focusing
on God's will each moment of our day makes it so much easier to align the
desires of our heart according to His ultimate plan for our life. We no longer
look to our body or soul to find fulfillment, although we do not neglect our
legitimate needs.
We
find more delight in reading His Word and in fellowshipping with His Body, and
we take every opportunity to invite people to church and to share Christ with
every weary soul that He brings our way.
Prayer:
Father
God, remind us that developing a spiritual mindset allows us to walk in abiding
joy, peace and gratitude as we accomplish Your will for our lives on a daily
basis. When we sell out for Christ, we live with a stronger desire to please You.
We love You with all of our heart; and we lean only on You for our strength, wisdom
and guidance throughout the day.
We
follow Jesus to the cross and we lose our life for Your sake; but then, we find
new life through our glorious intimate relationship with You (Matthew
10:38-39). As we faithfully follow Your precepts, our love for You and our trust
in You also increases. When we simply do Your will on a daily basis, we bring
both You and us so much joy and satisfaction.
Thought
for the Day:
Living
in God's will is a continual journey, not an ultimate destination; when we are
used to walking in unity with His Holy Spirit each moment of the day, the grief
we experience when we live outside of His will sends us running back into His
everlasting arms.
