Oh my, Father, what a morning! Thank You for helping me! I had forgotten to finish up today’s blog post, and You woke me a little earlier, and once awake, You reminded me to take care of it. I’m so glad that You are there for me!
James 4:1-3 (<<click here to read the passage)
Reading Your Word, Lord, reminds me of stories from my youth. It makes me think of dwarves mining for treasures! Oh, the nuggets of truth I find; the multi-faceted gems of enlightenment!
Today’s topic is not an enjoyable one to acknowledge, but it most assuredly needs to be addressed. I have a multitude of fond memories of growing up in the church. Even now, as I write, beautiful faces of wonderful people come to mind. I recall many events and programs that have impacted my life in a very positive way. But unfortunately, it was not all a bed of roses.
The longest we ever lived in one place (my father was my pastor) was three and a half years, I believe. My dad was a dedicated and loving servant of God, and while we had many other servants of God with whom to work in those churches, many quarreled and fought much as James refers to in my passage. They wanted what they didn’t have, so there was scheming and fighting and quarreling and backbiting and jealousy and heartache. I knew things were happening, but I was, for the most part, sheltered from the details. So I am grateful that I really can’t remember faces or particulars. I am blessed to serve in churches where, as a whole, I really don’t have to deal with those detriments to the Kingdom. But I also realize that the body of Christ is still replete with dissension.
Lord, today I would pray for the Church, Your body. Help us to see You… Help us to stop looking out for ourselves and to place our heart, soul, mind, and strength at Your feet. Help us to crucify the “old man,” the “flesh.” Because that is the issue, that is our problem… and You are the answer. Your love, filling us and overflowing from us, will bridge all wrongs and heal all wounds. Your love for us and our love for You creates the aroma that will bring the world to you. Help us to give ourselves over to You. Amen!
(Sept 16th, 2016, Fri, 6:45 am)
July 6th, 2025, Sun, 8:38 pm
