S) "3 'Surely I will not enter my house,
Nor lie on my bed;
4 I will not give sleep to my eyes
Or slumber to my eyelids,
5 Until I find a place for the Lord,
A dwelling place for the Mighty One of Jacob.'"
Psalm 132:3-5 (NASB)
*because there are already entries for each of these chapters, I also read Psalm 132
*because there are already entries for each of these chapters, I also read Psalm 132
O) The psalmist is actually quoting David in these verses, remembering his vow to bring the ark of God to Jerusalem, to establish a house for God. While we know that making vows to God is not something He wants (see Matthew 5:33-37), this passage still reveals a very powerful lesson about serving God. David had a clear vision for what he purposed in his heart to do. It was so clear, and powerful, that everyone around him knew what he was about. In fact, the whole nation knew this was his heart's desire (although he was in a unique position to influence, as king). This passage reminds us how seriously David took this mission. He was making it his sole ambition, until it was done. If we read through the historical books, we learn that even upon learning he would not construct the temple, he only altered his the execution of his life's mission. He decided to prepare everything beforehand, so that his son Solomon would be ready to build the temple upon his ascension. David had lofty goals, and even when he realized he wouldn't meet them (at least, how he envisioned them), he did not let that defeat or deflate him.
A) When I experience the goodness of God, as I have so frequently and so strongly throughout my life, my spirit springs to life with a desire to repay Him. Even though there is no actual ledger, and there is certainly nothing I can do that would amount to paying for my redemption (otherwise, what is the grace?). But, sometimes I feel like I'm at a loss for direction. When I meditate on His goodness to me, the grace that has always been at work in my life, the ways that He continues to provide for - not just my needs, but even just things I want - I get so inspired that I can hardly contain myself. Then, I start to feel like a kid who drank a 2 liter of Mountain Dew and has no one to play with. It is so important that I have a clear vision for how I can serve God, because He deserves my devotion and servitude, and when I am moved to worship and serve Him, I cannot sit on that feeling because of indecision. Right now, I am serving in a few different ways, leading a Life Group and helping with the elementary school kids on Wednesdays... there is also always the opportunity to serve my family. Sometimes those church opportunities seem like they lack opportunity (since we meet weekly), but I need to remember the powerful benefits of prayer. Taking my inspiration and focusing it into prayer for the other families in my Life Group, or the kids at Son Life, is always a worthwhile ministry, serving God by serving others. Also, I am deceiving myself if I think I lack opportunity, when it comes to serving my family. Even just giving them my time in fellowship, goes a long way in blessing them and honoring God. Even if I never form a life-long mission, the important thing is that I am pursuing my service to God as seriously as David did. I cannot get distracted or relent. God deserves at least that much commitment.
P) Father, You are interminably good to me. This week, I am reminded that Your grace precedes my sinfulness. If I fall on my face, sinning in foolishness, even over and over in a short period, none of that is going to negate Your goodness. Over and over, You astound me with the way You love me in spite of my many faults. It's not even just that You love me, but that Your love is so good. Thank You, Father, I am humbled. Help me to meditate on Your goodness, especially through this Christmas season. Let me be nothing short of completely bold with my testimonies of Your grace and mercy and love. There is no easier time to share the gospel, than around this holiday, so don't let me waste this, Lord. Give me opportunities, and let me be obedient to the lead of the Holy Spirit. With thanksgiving, help me to serve my Life Group faithfully, in prayer if nothing else. Help me serve the Son Life group at church faithfully, in prayer if nothing else. Help me to serve my family, with time or in prayer, if nothing else. Be glorified, and let Your will be done. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.
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