Some thoughts on the start of a new week and apprehension and worry:
Sometimes life is hard and we are presented with challenges that seem insurmountable, but there is virtue in staying the course. Because we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love him. Romans 8:28–we also know that we can begin a new week with new hope because He promises us hope. Perhaps you are starting your week with apprehension, with a multitude of worries and it seems that you don’t know which way to turn.
Love always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 1 Corinthians 13:7
God never meant for us to settle. He wants us to move forward in trust and hope. Imagine the way you would like 2019 to end. That’s a year away, but we need to begin with the end in sight. God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love him. How would you like to be serving God a year from now?
Perhaps God is asking you to do something for Him that will touch the lives of others, but you are not being obedient because you are not staying the course. You know what He has asked of you, but you don’t make time to discipline yourself enough to accomplish what it is that He wants you to achieve. Obedience requires us to stay the course and once we are on course, our Father in heaven will direct our paths so everything will work together for good. We must daily apply to the merits of Jesus, that we may become vessels which He can use to the fullest.
The Lord will guide you always. Isaiah 58:11 Imagine yourself standing next to Jesus. Close your eyes and look upon him. Thank him for the times He has loved and accepted you with open arms, despite your weaknesses. Think of someone you know that could use that same kind of love and acceptance. Ask Jesus to give you the opportunity to share His love and acceptance for whomever He intends for you to touch in the coming year.
May our Lord, who welcomes us again and again, open our hearts to gratitude for His incredible love, and may we live each day thankfully and joyfully.
Love always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 1 Corinthians 13:7
Stay the course. Persevere. Look for opportunities to serve and be a blessing to the Kingdom this week and in the coming year.
Holy Spirit, help us to keep our eyes on Jesus! Help us to trust you to get us through this week and to work out the things in our lives that need worked out–guiding our paths. May we be intentional about the purpose you have for us this week and in the coming year, to bring hope into the lives of others. We know, Lord, that you never meant for us to settle and be lukewarm. Renew a fire within us, that we may guard ourselves with truth. Amen.
