Take the Time

“So don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’ These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.”

Matthew 6:31-33 NLT

I heard a discussion about how to deal with worry. One suggestion “from the experts” (not sure the background of the experts) was to set aside a specific time to worry. Basically, make an appointment with yourself to only worry during the allotted time frame. I can’t even begin to tell you how diametrically opposed that is to the Word of God!

One question was, “Why is it wrong to worry? I just can’t help it.”  Baloney… Paul instructs us in 2nd Corinthians to bring every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ. And in our Promise for Today, Jesus speaking, So don’t worry about these things… [emphasis mine]. Hebrews 11:6 tells us without faith it is impossible to please God. We cannot pick and choose which Scriptures we like – which ones we will obey.  2^nd Timothy 3:16-17 tells us, All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work. How can we be prepared to do EVERY good work if we are worried?

Choosing to worry instead of submitting it all to the Lord is an accusation against God. Worry says, ‘I don’t trust You, God.’ (That’s ugly, isn’t it?)

Let’s check history. 

Since the beginning of time, has God ever abdicated His throne?

Has there ever been an earth-shattering event that has knocked HIM for a loop? 

Any war that did that? Recession? Inflation? Unemployment rate? Hurricane? Tsunami?  Earthquake? Epidemic? Pandemic? Anything? 

Has there been anything ever that has shaken who HE is? 

Anything that has changed HIM and/or HIS ability to be Father God? 

Anything that caused God Himself to throw out any part of His Word as no longer relative?

Absolutely, unequivocally, indisputably, a resounding NO!

So if you want to set aside a time, let me suggest that it be a time to stop and consider the wonderful miracles of God. A time to seek His Kingdom above all else. A time to thank Him for all He has done for you thus far. Take the time to NOT worry…

Prayer:

Father,

          Forgive us for doubting You and Your love and Your ability to care for us and the things that concern us. Father, according to Your Word in 1^st Peter 5, today we choose to take the time to cast all our cares on You because You care for us. Help our unbelief, Father. In Jesus’ Name we pray. Amen

Following the Plan

For I long to visit you so I can bring you some spiritual gift that will help you grow strong in the Lord. When we get together, I want to encourage you in your faith, but I also want to be encouraged by yours.
Romans 1:11-12 NLT

So many people ask, "Why am I here?" "What is my purpose?" Obviously, there is not one standard answer to that question. However, if you are a follower of Jesus Christ, and you don't know the answer, please be assured you are following the One who DOES know. God has a plan for everything. He's had it before the foundation of the world and there's a reason for all of it.

There have been times I've asked God, "What's the reason for this?" especially when it's not obvious to me why I am where I am in certain situations. BUT, Proverbs tells us, Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not to thine own understanding. And while I may not have been able to see why I was in a certain place or situation, once I move down the path, continuing to trust Him, following in His footsteps, I am able to look back and see clearly why I was there.

Generally, it's one of four reasons.

1. Organizational structure

For example, Nehemiah was the king's cup-bearer, that was his job, but God had another plan - for Nehemiah to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. The story is a fascinating tale of favor with God and with King Xerxes, about a cup-bearer with tremendous organizational skills.

2. Financial aid

As much as people HATE to talk about the M-word in church, some things just take money to accomplish. I'm not talking about grand cathedrals, etc, (although if that's what God called you to build, do it). I'm talking about supplying the needs of the Body and those who spread the Good News and that often takes practical application, such as paying the bills for electricity and running water. 

3. Divine Order 

Sometimes you get somewhere because you've been-there-done-that and you can help by instructing others in how it's done or at least encouraging them in the process.

4. Obedience
Simply living your life in obedience to follow God no matter the circumstances. What a powerful testimony and encouragement that is to those within your sphere of influence.

Yes, God has a plan for everything. So, while you may not be able to see what you are supposed to be doing in a certain place or situation at this moment in time, continue to follow His footsteps. HE knows where you are and why you are there and He is trustworthy.

Prayer:

Father,
           Oh, the comfort in knowing that You lead us and we can follow, safe and secure, because You never leave us or forsake us. Father, help us to know this Truth deep in our hearts. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen