Restore to me the joy of Your salvation
And sustain me with a willing spirit.
Then I will teach transgressors Your ways,
And sinners will be converted to You.
Psalm 51:12 (NASB)
Time and again, Jesus persevered through the crowds and drew near the sea. He spoke truth in parables…mystery hidden to those with veiled eyes. How deep was the deep? Only He who walked above it knew! The one who slept through storms and hushed the winds and waves.
During times of great confusion and testing, be strong and show yourself courageous for the sake of yourself and others. We may question our strength and abilities…but God is faithful to provide. The battle is His and the outcome is secure! Keep doing the work He has called you to do and don’t turn to the left or right. He will equip you for the task and supply your needs.
Your fears, doubts, and hesitation will keep you just out of sight of your destination. But hope sits around the bend, beyond where your eyes can see. God knows your future memories…trust Him to lead you where He is!
The Master Gardner grew the small mustard seed into the largest of trees. And that deemed useless and colorless became a canopy of refuge for the weary. Jesus met people where they were! He knew the depth of their mess, and the stain it left. And He didn’t flinch! He drew near and His grace provided protection, shelter, and sustenance.
Our God plants…waters…and grows his people until they become what they thought impossible!
“The Kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and sowed in his field; and this is smaller than all other seeds, but when it is full grown, it is larger than the garden plants and becomes a tree, so that THE BIRDS OF THE AIR COME and NEST IN ITS BRANCHES.”
Matthew 13: 31, 32 (NASB)
Don’t let the world’s deceitful desires distract and tie up your calling. Let go of temporary pleasures…quick-fix satisfaction…and easy escapes. Choose the straight and narrow path and you won’t stumble! And God’s word and way won’t be choked by worries and nonsense.
When we rebel, sin, or make a wrong turn, we let ourselves down and others. Our failures keep us stuck in the deep. And Satan uses guilt to strip us of our worth. We feel undeserving and become ineffective. Shame steals our joy and purpose. It depletes our energy and kills our light…efforts…hopes…dreams…holiness…and love. Our soul is destroyed and God’s glory is marred. And Satan does a happy dance! This is what he planned all the while…
We must return to the Lord and confess our sins. As we humble ourselves and repent with genuine sorrow, He will be faithful to cleanse and forgive.
Restore the joy of our salvation, oh Lord, and renew our strength. Help us to lay down our lives with willing hearts. Fulfill your purpose in us so your name will be praised!
~ Lily Mae
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