I have found it really helpful to make time to think prayerfully and reflect upon those ‘stand out’ statements that seem to leap off the pages of The Book, as if alive, and open the eyes of my heart. Although there are many ‘Christian’ messages that are listened to daily on social media, would it not be more satisfying to give our time to Jesus, our Lord and King and listen to what HE has to say.
KEEPING IN STEP
The holy Spirit has surprising ways of bringing to mind insights which are needed to keep me in step with the Spirit both in the immediate today as well as wisdom for tomorrow. These words are the building blocks of life preparing me for my next step
PUZZLE
I love the way that we do not have to understand everything immediately but God gradually in His wisdom clearly reveals His heart’s desire to us. He knows best which part of His plans fit and where. Sometimes, just like the pieces of a jigsaw puzzle, the Spirit’s revelation slots into each other and builds a picture of God’s purposes within my very ordinary life and the lives of others.
I would like to share some of those seemingly disconnected parts with you. These observations may well help to strengthen, encourage and direct your own devotion to Jesus.
What an insightful statement about Jacob, a man known for deceiving his father and robbing his brother. In his last days while blessing his Grandchildren….”By faith Jacob,…and worshipped as he leaned on the top of his staff.” [1] He worshipped God while leaning on his staff. An ordinary, everday occurence…BUT he worshipped his God. Therefore whatever we are ‘leaning’ on let us also worship God.
ACTS TODAY
In the Acts of the early Church we read about two people we hear very little about. However, they are described in a way that sets them apart by their way of life. “Titius Justus, a worshipper of God.” [2] “Lydia, a worshipper of God.” [3]
I am deeply challenged by God’s words to Moses.’ He was to confront Pharoah with the words of God. “Get up early in the morning, confront Pharoah and say to him; ‘This is what the LORD, the God of the Hebrews, says: LET MY PEOPLE GO, SO THAT THEY MAY WORSHIP ME.” [4]
WORSHIP IN THE WILDERNESS
In other words go out into the wilderness and worship Me, I think that means the marketplace or the neighbourhood for us. Personally, I want to be known as a ‘worshipper of God.’ In the dry and barren places, in the places of uncertainty! In the weakness of leaning on my staff!
Worship is that quality of participating in God’s goodness and loving kindness as we declare not just with singing but with our whole being…body, soul, mind and heart as we love one another just as He loves us.
I find these words heart-warming…”Your beauty and love chase after me every day of my life. I’m back home in the house of God for the rest of my life.” [5]
[1] Hebrews 11:21 NIV
[2] Acts 18:7 NIV
[3] Acts 16:14 NIV
[4] Exodus 9:13 NIV
[5] Psalm 23:6 THE MSG