Give Like God

From the beginning of time God has been a giver. When it would benefit Him in no way other than to have relationship with us, He created mankind and the world we live in. When it was time for us to begin this life and take care of the earth He made, he gave us everything we would ever need. And above all else, when our sin separated us from Him, He gave His only son to bring us back (John 3:16).

Giving is not just something that Father God does, but it serves to help define who He is. 2 Peter 1:3 tells us that by His divine power we have been given everything that pertains to life and godliness. In the garden He gave life, blessing and purpose. Through the years that man wandered, He never stopped giving provision. Through the prophets of the Old Testament He gave correction and direction. And finally, through Jesus Christ, He gives us eternal life. Truly the attribute of giving marks Him as one who is loving, kind, merciful and compassionate, and so it must mark us. If we serve the God of the universe, in whose image we were created, then our lives must display the gift of giving.

Our time, talents and treasure are not our own, but are entrusted to us by God to live this life while blessing those around us. In so doing we further solidify our role as his ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:20) and as His children (John 1:12). So as we're right in the middle of celebrating the birth of Jesus during this Christmas season, remember that we're not only blessed to receive, but also to give like God.

Created for Relationship

After celebrating another birthday last week I am really thankful for relationships. I received such an outpouring of cards, gifts, texts, letters, Facebook messages and e-mails that it is overwhelming. The love and gratitude expressed by my friends and family was huge and my response in thankfulness was just as great because I begun to realize that it is only through valuing and committing to relationships that we reap the benefits. By embracing everything, including the tough times, we have the opportunity to enjoy all of the benefits and blessings. In Genesis right before He created man, God said, 'it is not good for man to be alone' (Genesis 1:18). In this, God not only spoke of marriage, but of all relationships because there was no other human but Adam up to that point. God's desire was that in the same way He created man and wanted fellowship with him, He wanted Adam (and all of future mankind) to have the opportunity to fellowship with others who were like him.

Just as the two great commandments referenced by Jesus in Matthew 22 state - love the lord with all your heart, soul and mind and love your neighbor as yourself - we were created to love God and love each other. Regardless of whether it's easy, or filled with challenges, we are called to live this life in relationship: with God and others. So cherish it, enjoy it, work at it and succeed in it because truly, we were created for relationship.

The Power of Agreement

Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven (Matthew 18:19). Unity is a powerful thing and is highly valued by our Heavenly Father. After man was created, the first thing God said of him was that it was not good for man to be alone. This was not only a statement of the need for creating the institution of marriage, but about the need for humans created in God's image to come to a place of unity with others concerning their purpose. As humanity, we have been designed by God for His glory and for relationship with Him, but we've also been designed for relationship with one another. In the context of that relationship, the necessity for purpose by design of God is undeniable. We are created for good works as Ephesians 2:10 states, and that purpose is fulfilled as we come together with one mind and heart for God's glory. As Psalm 133 tells us, God sees it as 'good and pleasant' when we dwell together in unity because in that place God knows that as we walk in relationship with Him and one another, we are able to fulfill what He has desired for us from the beginning: loving Him, and loving one another. With this is mind, remember what we've been exhorted to do in Hebrews 10:24-25:

²⁴And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, ²⁵ not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

Coming together for community and mission is key to fulfilling our purpose in Christ. He has made a place for us because He knows that if we will 'agree on earth about anything', He is able to work it out in and through us according to His will. Realize that this is why the enemy so desperately tries to sell us a bill of goods to unify under ungodly causes that directly contradict God's word. Our response to that must always be to rally under the banner of God's word and Spirit in Jesus' name so that we will do what He's called us to do and be what He's called us to be. So whether it is a particular mission, Bible study, family time, fellowship or corporate worship, never forget to embrace the power of agreement.

Full of Faith

Approaching God has always been a subject that has produced different responses from many groups of people and religions across the world. Some think they can come on their own terms and according to their own 'truth', while others think that God could never accept them because of all that they've done and all that they've been through. The reality is that we have a clear directive from God's word that tells us how to approach Him and it's stated in a simple yet profound way in Hebrews 11:6: ... But without faith [it is] impossible to please [Him], for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and [that] He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. The Message Bible makes it even more descriptive and compelling in everyday language:

It's impossible to please God apart from faith. And why? Because anyone who wants to approach God must believe both that he exists and that he cares enough to respond to those who seek him.

What an amazing picture of how simple it is to come to Him, while still holding true to how deeply we must believe in and commit to Him. God has set us up to succeed in that He tells us to come and seek Him by faith and that He actually 'cares enough to respond to those who seek Him.' He cares so much so that He provided His only son so that we could be reconciled through the forgiveness of our sins, provides the ability for us to do what He sets before us, remains unchanging in the way He relates to us throughout time, and loves us unconditionally through it all. If anyone was ever deserving of our faith, it is Him.

Whether you're going through something difficult or all seems well, remember that He is unfailing in His promises and love toward those who seek Him (Psalm 119:89-90; Psalm 103:17-18). He has shown Himself to be trustworthy, always working things out for our good (Romans 8:28). He is the one who knows the beginning from the end, and no matter what you see with your natural eyes, you can always have faith in God, knowing that He has your best in mind. He has said, 'I will never leave you or forsake you' (Hebrews 13:5) so you can trust in Him with all your heart (Proverbs 3:5-6). He truly is the rewarder of those who seek Him diligently, with a heart that's full of faith.

Let's Celebrate!

Celebration in the context of scripture can sometimes be downplayed in light of other 'bigger issues', but it is definitely an important part of who God has created us to be. It's no coincidence that we have special ceremonies and occasions at different times in life. We all are accustomed to parties related to birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, graduations, starting of a business or other organization, and a host of other things that we could list. As we consider this topic, let's look at some examples from the Bible to see how this all plays out from God's perspective.

Psalm 98 gives us a great general view as to why celebrating is a Godly and fruitful activity. We are called in this scripture to '... sing to the Lord a new song! For He has done marvelous things...' (v.1). God's works are incredible in their display of His power, mercy and goodness toward us and we should celebrate and give Him thanks accordingly. Throughout the books of Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy we see the feasts that the people of God were called to which were steeped in celebration and thanksgiving. In addition, we all remember the call that is set before us in Psalm 100 to '... enter his gates with thanksgiving and come into His courts with praise' (v.4).

So whether it's a birthday, wedding, anniversary, graduation, or some other special occasion, remember that God's faithfulness and mercy are ever-present in our lives and need to be acknowledged. Just remember to keep Him at the forefront of our minds and in every opportunity we have to reflect on His goodness, let's celebrate!

Not Our Own

In 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, the Apostle Paul makes a strong statement of direction to those of the Corinthian church. He began it with respect to sexual purity but as you read it you realize that this becomes an encouragement and reminder for all of life.

... do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit [who is] in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's.

By the work of the cross we were redeemed by Jesus Christ in order to know, love and serve Him in all that we do. As you look at Paul's encouragement, you see that we are called to glorify God in our bodies and our spirits (v.20). Through his statement, he didn't focus exclusively on what we do with our physical bodies, but also on what our hearts (spirits) pursue. The effect of this powerful declaration is that nothing in our lives becomes irrelevant to Father God and no stone is left unturned. We were bought with the price of Jesus' life and as a result, our only reasonable response is to give Him all of who we are. So whether it's a song, a monetary offering, service to someone else, our performance at work, the way we run our business, or the way we treat others, everything is our gift back to Him. With that in mind, we must stay in close contact with Him by His word and Spirit in order to love what He loves, hate what He hates and live our lives accordingly.

So the next time you prepare for the day, have a thought cross your mind, or find yourself pondering the course of your life, remember that all we are and all that we do is for His glory. We truly are not our own.

Partnered for Purpose

Since the beginning of time God has desired that we would join forces with Him in order for His will to be done through us. In the garden when He simply could have created robots who would do His bidding, he opted instead to create Adam and Eve with their own free will so that they could choose to partner with Him to fulfill the purpose He had established for all mankind. Throughout the Old Testament when the people of God continued to stray, He never made them do His will but simply gave them the opportunity to return to Him over and over, experiencing His never-ending mercy and grace. When Jesus came to redeem us from our sinful condition, even He had the opportunity to choose to partner with Father God for His purpose when He came to the crossroads in the Garden of Gethsemane. And now when it comes to you and I, let's never forget that the Father always gives us the chance to choose His will and do our part in the process. He never makes you do anything, but He gives you the choice and provides the grace to fulfill whatever He's calling you to do.

Recently, a close friend shared an insight from Jentzen Franklin with me that ties in with this topic. He said that when Peter was being miraculously freed from prison by the angels of God (Acts 12), a peculiar thing happened. Despite chains falling off of his hands, walking through walls and a secure iron gate opening on it's own (with the help of the Holy Spirt :-)), the angel asked Peter to 'put on [his] garments and follow [him]' (v.8). Why with so much miraculous occurrence was there a need for Peter to do the simplest of things: putting on his robe and shoes? The reason that Jentzen Franklin shared is profound. Despite all of the powerful workings of the Holy Spirit, there was still a requirement of the step of faith by doing his part for Peter. Even in His working of the miraculous, the Father still wants us to partner through our obedience to Him. It's why Jesus had to come to the crossroads at Gethsemane (Matthew 26:36-45) and why Peter had to step out of the boat to walk on water in Matthew 14. It's also why you and I must find out what God requires of us in partnering with Him for what we're called to do.

So today and everyday, I encourage you to do whatever Father God is requiring of you to remain partnered with Him, for your purpose in Him.

Your Great Name

Please take a few minutes to watch the the powerful story behind the song, 'Your Great Name.' Humble worshippers declaring the name of our awesome God. Just click on the video titled

'Your Great Name - Song Story' which is on the right side of this page. Enjoy!!

Follow the Cloud, Not the Crowd

As I was reading the most exciting book in the Bible this week: Numbers, insert sarcasm :-). I saw something in a whole new light. In Numbers 9, Moses and the children of Israel are commanded to follow the cloud - a tangible representation of God's presence - wherever it led them. Now of course we all know that's what happened throughout the sojourning of the children of Israel: the cloud led them by day and the pillar of fire by night (Exodus 13:21-22). The key point which I had overlooked for so long in this passage was in verses 21-23. In it they were given specific instructions:

21 So it was, when the cloud remained only from evening until morning: when the cloud was taken up in the morning, then they would journey; whether by day or by night, whenever the cloud was taken up, they would journey. 22 Whether it was two days, a month, or a year that the cloud remained above the tabernacle, the children of Israel would remain encamped and not journey; but when it was taken up, they would journey. 23 At the command of the LORD they remained encamped, and at the command of the LORD they journeyed; they kept the charge of the LORD, at the command of the LORD by the hand of Moses.

This passage shows clearly that they didn't simply pack their things and start moving because it was a new day and then wrap it all up and stop because it was night time. They moved when He said to move and they stayed when He said to stay. Our lives are the same. We are truly not our own and we must remain in a posture that is humbly submitted to God's leading and direction by the Holy Spirit. Whatever season of life you're in, whoever you're called to care for or minister to, whatever your job is, whatever task or project you must take on, etc., know where you are called right now and be about following His will for your life. Just as the children of Israel, we need to follow the direction of the Father regardless of how we feel. Whether it's convenient or not, He knows the beginning from the end and has our best in mind. That means we need to stay when He says to stay and move when He says to move.

No matter what those around you are doing, it's imperative that you know who you are called to be, and what you are called to do as the Lord directs your steps (Proverbs 16:9). His ways and thoughts are higher than ours and He graces us to rise to the occasion (Isaiah 55:9). So in each day and in every season, always remember: follow the cloud, and not the crowd.

Good Friday Prayer

This was originally posted on the Blue Letter Bible Blog (http://blogs.blueletterbible.org/blb/).

O LORD, my God and Savior,

Mockery was a great ingredient to your woes.
Judas mocked You in the Garden;
the chief priests and scribes laughed you to scorn;
Herod set you at nought;
the servants and the soldiers jeered and harassed you with brutal insults;
Pilate and his guards ridiculed Your royalty, even though it was truth;
and on Your cross—where you bled through your hands, your feet, your brow—all sorts of horrid jests and hideous taunts were hurled at You.

Such ridicule is always hard to bear, but all the more when we are in intense agony.
And all the more when it is so heartless, so cruel, that it cuts us to the quick.

As I picture you hanging on Your cross, my great God and Savior crucified, I cannot bear the thought. Your frail and beaten Self was racked with anguish far beyond all mortal guess. A motley mob wagged their heads and thrusted out the lip in bitterest contempt and insult toward you, a suffering victim. So humble a Savior!

O Jesus, “despised and rejected of men,” “acquainted with grief and sorrow,” how could You die for men who treated You so ill, so poorly, so horridly? How? Herein is love so amazing, love divine, yes, love beyond degree! We, too, have despised You in the days of our own unregenerate state, and even since our new birth we have set the world on high in our hearts, and yet You bled to heal our wounds and died to give us life.

Oh, that we could set You on a glorious high throne in all men’s hearts! We would ring out Your praises over land and sea till men should as universally adore as once they did unanimously reject.

Your creatures wrong You, Oh sovereign LORD! And yet, Your grace comes down to us like a river from that Cross. You died and rose again that we might do the same. So we run to you, from the foot of that cross to the foot of Your throne, hearts bursting forth with thanksgiving and praise, “Oh God, take me! Like You there is no other! My life is purchased and Yours!”

(adapted from Charles H. Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening devotional)nd Evening devotional)

He Never Changes

Jesus. The name above all names. Healer, redeemer, restorer, savior, shepherd, friend and Lord of all. Today and everyday, Jesus is unchanging. He is the word of God, manifested to us in His time on earth, and continually manifested in us by the work of the word and the Spirit. No matter what you think based on what you can see, He is forever steadfast and immovable. He was present at the foundation of the world, at the fall of man, and clearly seen by all during the redemptive work of the cross. This same Jesus is here for us today. Accessible to the one who is yet to believe, and walking faithfully with the one who already believes by the Holy Spirit. Hebrews 13:8 says it well: Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. We are afforded an incredible opportunity today to know the One who was, is, and will always be, who is more than able to work in our lives to will and to do for His glory (Philippians 2:13). Come what may, good or bad, remember that you can always trust Him. He truly never changes.

Look Up

My encouragement for you today is simple: look up. In Hebrews 12:1-2 we are encouraged to run the race of life faithfully as we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus:

¹ Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, ² looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Day to day we are often distracted by things around us, but we can always receive renewed vision and strength in knowing that we can look to Jesus in every situation. He's been where we are as he put on flesh to bear our sin and make a way of salvation for us, and he is always with us by the Holy Spirit. Never forget as you go through your walk of faith that He really does perfect that which concerns us (Psalm 138:8). So the next time you get distracted and discouraged by what you see, remember to look up: Jesus will always be there.

Who Does He Say I Am?

The affirmation of a father is unlike any other. So many of us have a difficulty relating to this concept because of sub par experiences with natural fathers. Whether you've had a positive or a negative experience with your natural father, our Father in Heaven is always one who loves us, affirms us, speaks encouraging words over us, and has given it all so that we could be with Him. No matter what you have believed about yourself, remember that His thoughts toward you are good. His love is unconditional and He always has your best in mind, no matter what things look like in the natural. Let's take a look at what He says about YOU:

He has given you the right to become a child of God - John 1:12.

You were brought near by the blood of Christ - Ephesians 2:13.

You are a new creation in Christ - 2 Corinthians 5:17.

He directs your steps - Psalm 37:23.

You can do all things through Christ who gives you strength - Philippians 4:13.

All things are added to your life when you seek His Kingdom first - Matthew 6:33.

He leads you to victory - 2 Corinthians 2:14.

He has good thoughts toward you - Jeremiah 29:11.

He has created you for good works - Ephesians 2:10.

He works out all things for your good - Romans 8:28.

You have peace, given to you by Jesus - John 14:28.

You have been given power, love and a sound mind - 2 Timothy 1:7.

God's goodness and mercy will follow you all the days of your life - Psalm 23:6.

Obviously, I could go all day with statements of encouragement from God's word, but I won't. Instead, my proposition for you is to spend everyday tuning your ears in to what He says about you and those around you. The words you receive will be the door to fulfilling the two great commandments that Jesus declared - loving the Lord and loving your neighbor as yourself (Matthew 22:34-40). We serve a great Father and YOU have been created in His likeness. Receive every word of life He has for you and remember that no matter what you or others say about you, you can always go back to this question: Who does He say I am? The answer will undoubtedly be one full of Father God's affirmation, life and purpose.

Fighting Words

My writing today is inspired by an excerpt from 'The Power of Praise and Worship' by Terry Law and Jim Gilbert. In the early chapters of this book, Terry does a masterful job of describing the nature of strongholds that have plagued mankind for generations. Most of the negative issues we face - greed, lust, fear, anger, timidity, murder, etc. - have their roots in the spiritual realm; being established in the minds of people to eventually be acted out in our material world. It's when we realize how these things are coming against us, and in turn arm ourselves accordingly, that we can experience real change and victory in our lives. The biggest key to accessing this victory is to realize that the word of God - planted in our hearts and minds and released by our own declaration - is our most potent weapon.

Here's how Terry explains it:

Jesus has granted us "power of attorney" to use the Word of God in His name. It is His voice satan hears when we invoke this power against the strongholds that bind us. We counterattack the devil's thoughts - they were his before we bought into them - and they lose their grip on our minds.
(The Power of Praise and Worship, pg. 97)

What an incredible reality! Jesus has given us full "power of attorney" with respect to the Word of God. We don't have to conjure up some solution on our own or buy into the latest greatest teaching from some "spiritual guru", but we get to find our solutions, strength and the keys to victory in God's word. Let's be mindful of this in all situations whether we're at church singing songs of worship, transacting business, doing homework, raising our kids, playing sports or enjoying times of rest and leisure. In all places and at all times, the power of God's word is well able to work on our behalf to defeat the enemy. As we resist the lies of satan and his demonic forces and declare the word of God there is certain victory, not in our strength, but in His.

Just as it says in Psalm 138:2, God really has exalted above all things His name and His word. That same word is powerful, true and unchanging (Psalm 119:160; Heb. 1:1-3). It is able to bring light into the darkest of places (Psalm 119:130) and lead us in the right direction (Psalm 119:105). It really is living and powerful and sharper than any two-edged sword (Hebrews 4:12). Take heart today in knowing that for every battle you face, God's words truly are fighting words, a.k.a. your best weapon.

Dyin' to Live

Today's topic: dying. I know, not the most fun thing to consider in the world, but one that is absolutely essential if you want to follow Christ. The reality of Jesus' life was that he left the eternal to become temporal in order to redeem us, but after His death and burial, He was resurrected to new life. Our call is no different, we must die to ourselves in order to be raised to new life which comes by knowing the Father. As John 17:3 tells us: this is eternal life, that they might know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent. Coming into relationship with God is what opens the door of eternal life for all of us. That is why natural death, though sad and a loss for those who remain, should never be feared by the follower of Christ because in knowing Him, we've already entered into eternal life.

The question then is how do we die to ourselves? The key is repentance. Jesus began His ministry by preaching: repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand (Matthew 4:17). How do we access the Kingdom? By repenting of all that is not of God and turning to Him through accepting the sacrifice of Jesus Christ (John 14:6). Now you may be saying, "sure I know this. I've already done that." Whether you have or not, the truth is, unless we continually repent (turn away) from all of those things that are not pleasing to God and turn to Him, we are fooling ourselves with religious actions. Our fruit must be of those who continually repent and die to ourselves that we may continually experience life in Him. How do you speak to your spouse, children and co-workers or classmates? How do you drive :-)? What do you watch on television? What do you listen to? What are your thoughts like toward others and about yourself? How do you spend your money? All of these things, and so many others, testify as to whether or not we're continually dying to ourselves in order to live to Him. Keep Jesus in focus and we'll keep what He loves in focus. Nothing else will shed light into all areas of life like He will (Psalm 119:130). He is the word of God (John 1:1-2) and will truly lead us into all truth by His Spirit. Jesus called us to take up our cross daily to follow Him (Luke 9:23-25) signifying a continual death to self. Our response to Jesus' command should be as the Apostle Paul who declared: I die daily (1 Corinthians 15:31). By doing this, he realized he would walk in the totality of all that Christ had for him. We have the opportunity everyday to do just the same.

So today, remember that if we're in Christ, we are new creations. Old things have passed away and all things have become new (2 Corinthians 5:17). Let's allow everything that doesn't please him to die so that we may experience His life at work in us and truly say, "I'm dyin' to live."

Worship

Here's a powerful post written by Mark Driscoll of Mars Hill Church regarding worship. It really reminded me of a word I shared last year: http://4worship.blogspot.com/2009/07/worship-unrestricted.html except on a much deeper level. His insightfulness regarding what worship truly is, is powerful. Here is the link:

Bring it to Life

My encouragement for you today comes from a simple yet profound statement made regarding the advent of Jesus' time here on earth as recorded in John 1. 'And the word became flesh and dwelt among us...' (v.14). This statement signifies much more than just a quick glossing over the fact that God sent His son to earth. It's a statement, due to it's depth, that requires us to look at what was done by God and then what we must do in light of that. The fact is that we are called to be the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:27) and today, the word must still become flesh and dwell among us.

When Jesus redeems us by His blood, we become restored children of God according to His will, meaning that we now become not only partakers of His divine favor and grace, but also ambassadors who represent His character to the world (2 Corinthians 5:17-21). In a very real sense, Jesus not only came as the messiah, but also as the forerunner for us in allowing God's word to be realized in our lives and in the lives of those around us. When Jesus was manifested in the flesh, the reality was that all of who He was in God as 'the Word' became a reality that we could tangibly witness and interact with. I would dare say that we are called to represent Him in the same way, allowing the word to become a reality in us that people can witness and interact with, thus being drawn to the Father. Remember that prior to His ascension, Jesus prayed for those who would believe in Him because of our [although spoken to the original disciples this statement is directed to all disciples] word. He was literally installing us as those who would do what He did, not as messiahs in our own right, but as His representatives. So the responsibility rests on us to allow God's word, written and spoken, to become a reality in us as we submit to it. As we do this, God will be glorified in us and His Kingdom will continue to advance because it won't be about us, but about Him. Obstacles, won't be seen as hindrances, but stepping stones to greater places He's called us to. Temptations won't be snares for us, but opportunities to show the power of the Word and the Spirit. Darkness will be dispelled and light will prevail as we continue in His word as true disciples (John 8:31-32) who are changing and becoming what He wills.

Ephesians 2:10 says that we were created in Christ Jesus for good works which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. So let's allow the word to become flesh in our lives and in turn see God's greatness displayed. Remember today, and everyday, to receive the word and allow the Holy Spirit to bring it to life in you.

Remember the Little Things

In light of last week's post, I'd like to refer you to a post I wrote in September 2010 entitled 'The Little Things'. I believe it definitely expresses a key component in fulfilling what God has called each of us to do.

Here's the link: http://4worship.blogspot.com/2010/09/little-things.html

Enjoy!

It's Time to Rest

Amidst the business of life, there is always a deeper call. One that most of us recognize to some degree, but often put aside not realizing the full importance thereof. It's the call to deeper things in the Father. And more often than not, those deeper things are only attained through laying aside our works to take up His. Many times when we look at this topic we only go as far as the weekly sabbath which God has provided as a time of rest, reflection and recharging to continue walking in all that He has for us. I would like to take it a step further today and talk about the sabbath rest in our lives that comes when we stop pursuing those things that we're not called to, and start moving full steam ahead in the things that we are called to.

Upon salvation, we enter a new kingdom: the Kingdom of God. In so doing, we have changed affiliation, citizenship, teams, families, and any other analogy that you could come up with to represent this revolutionary change. It's obvious to us that once we're saved we now are called to be children of God, but in every house the kids have different personalities, giftings and callings. The question today is what is yours? Are you walking in the calling the Father has for you and living each day toward that, or are you simply living life with the hope of Jesus' return because you're not sure what you should do other than pray, read your Bible, go to church and not sin? Understand, there are basic tenets of faith that we're all called to, but what is it that He is calling you to do specifically? Leave the door open for Holy Spirit to direct you, as the word says, 'into all truth' (John 16:13). With this posture, you'll be able to proceed knowing that each day when you lay your head on the pillow, you've done the things that He's purposed for you to do, and fulfilled another day of your calling. Whether it be simple or more vast than you can imagine right now, tune in to God's station to hear His message for you. Take the time to turn everything else off that would be a distraction so that what He says can ring loud and clear.

The bottom line, let's focus ourselves on being fruitful in our calling this year and not just being busy about life. Only you will know where and what He is calling you to do so keep your spiritual eyes and ears open so you're ready for the message. He loves us and has so much for us, but business and blurred vision can be major detractors from these things. Let's only be busy about the things He has for us to do. Let us realize the power of His word and Spirit and the rest that is to be received in His presence by ceasing from our works (what we want) and taking up His works (what He wants) - (Hebrews 4; esp. v.9-12).

So today, seek to know His purpose for this season of your life if you already haven't. Put down your works and take up His. Fulfill your calling and not what you think are obligations. Allow any blurred vision to become clear and remember, it's time to rest in Him.