Well, here I am...first day of the new year. Wonder what God has in store for me this year? All I know is that I need to be ready...ready to move forward as He urges, and ready to wait when He puts me on hold.
I've just started reading Chuck Swindoll's Growing Strong in the Seasons of Life as my 2010 daily devotional book. I read it many years ago when it was first published, but as with all my other books, I am also going back through my devotional books one more time before I give them away (see side bar).
This book starts out in the winter season. Chuck says that winter is a season of quiet reverence, a time when the strong winds cause our roots to go deeper. That's the season of life I am in. I want to go deeper in the Lord.
Every day is started on my knees and in His Word. I ask what He wants me to know and learn in the day ahead. Then I read the Bible and the devotional book as though God Himself were talking to me. I am excited to see what He says to me this year through the writings of Chuck Swindoll.
The word for me to day (from my devotional) is "Consistent". It's defined as dependability...something (someone) you can count on, reliability. It calls for diligence and discipline. It is displayed in patience, determination, and strength.
Paul instructs Timothy to:
"Keep a close watch on yourself and on your teaching. Stay true to what is right, and God will save you and those who hear you." (I Timothy 4:16)
That's a huge responsibility! Not only does my destiny depend on staying consistently true to what is right, but also those who listen to me. In addition, I received encouragement from God's Word today. In Hebrews I was reminded:
"For God is not unfair. He will not forget how hard you have worked for him and how you have shown your love to him by caring for other Christians, as you still do. Our great desire is that you will keep right on loving others as long as life lasts in order to make certain that what you hope for will come true. Then you will not become spiritually dull and indifferent. Instead, you will follow the example of those who are going to inherit God's promises because of their faith and patience." (Hebrews 6:10-12)
A final thought from this morning's devotional reading is that discouragement and negative thinking blinds us to opportunities. We must keep ready, use our gifts, and watch for God at work through us.
May I be ready to move forward as He urges, and to wait when He puts me on hold. I know this for sure: I am totally committed to my Lord Jesus Christ, and whatever 2010 brings my way belongs to Him. He will see me through. I can depend on Him.
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