A friend of mine has been text sharing excerpts from a devotional her friend, Faith, gifted her at Christmas. A humble beginning but what a tremendous sense of Community! Immeasurable blessing abounds so I thought I’d share. Feel free to join in…if you’re longing for More…and if you dare!
I’d rather not add too many of my own terms but defer instead to the power of God’s word and the power of Holy Spirit thru whom He continually speaks and directs.
LORD, help us all in this! I know I certainly fall short!
“For the whole Law [concerning human relationships] is fulfilled in one precept, “YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF [that is, you shall have an unselfish concern for others and do things for their benefit.]” Galatians 5:14 AMP
It’s entirely impossible to do this in one’s own strength! Praise God from Whom all blessings flow…and for the Heavenly Being within, Who abides, empowers and equips!
“But I say, walk habitually in the [Holy] Spirit [seek Him and be responsive to His guidance], and then you will certainly not carry out the desire of the sinful nature [which responds impulsively without regard for God and His precepts]. Galatians 5:14 &16 AMP
What would happen if I let go of all my ‘rights’ to 100% side and trust God. Emulate what He did!
“Why are you reasoning in your hearts? Which is easier, to say, “Your sins are forgiven you,’ or to say ‘Rise up and walk’? Luke 5:23 NKJV
How radical might my walk become if I lay aside my position, forego all my personal opinions, to simply reflect Christ and mirror His message?
“For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps…” 1 Peter 2:21 NKJV
How presumptive of me to take control when I allow my emotions to lead me! What I don’t recognize in the moment, I repent of that now. Thank You, God, for forgiveness!
After this He went out and saw a tax collector named Levi, sitting at the tax booth. And He said to him, “Follow Me.” And leaving everything, Levi rose and followed Him. And Levi made him a great feast in his house, and there was a large company of tax collectors and others reclining at the table with them.” Luke 5:26-29 ESV
It’s impossible to rewrite what’s already transpired but I can resolve to adapt and change my response moving forward. Bring them One, bring them all; bring them just the way that they are…and may they find themselves loved the same way God loves me!
“For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.” Matthew 16:25 NKJV
About those other concerns re: what about me…they’re now laid to rest. Thank You, GOD, for all the beautiful feathers that have all along been feathering this nest!
“Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. This I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; He is my God, and I trust Him. For He will rescue you from every trap and protect you from deadly disease. He will cover you with His feathers. He will shelter you with His wing. His faithful promises are your armor and protection.” Psalm 91:1-4 NLT
Amen!
Let me add a P.S. Many thanks to you, too, Cynthia!