One of my golfing pals (a duffer, like me) used to say we needed to go to the driving range and practice. I’d answer, “Bad idea. We’ll just be practicing doing it wrong; what we need is golf lessons.”
When we remain in God’s word, our heavenly coach will see to it our practice is done correctly. If our minds are set on Jesus, and we ask Him for knowledge and understanding, it will be given to us.
If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you. John 15:7
I’ve heard it said, “The key to happiness is to not want anything,” and I’ve decided it’s true regarding all things.
For instance, when I write encouragements, I often lament the fact my books and posts are not widely, favorably received. I want my words of encouragement to have a positive effect on as many people as possible, and when it seems they don’t, I’m disappointed.
Recently, while contemplating the situation, I asked myself, “How many is enough? One? Ten? Fifty? Thousands? Millions?” I’ve decided the answer to the question is, “Yes.” For you see:
I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.Philippians 4:11
For more encouraging words and other writings, please visit my website:
There are times when it seems so easy, natural even, to look back on our past and ask, “What if?” But I’ve come to the realization that we are where we are because of, maybe in spite of, the things, the people, and the circumstances, of our past. Every look, touch, word, and happening helped shape us into who we are and place us where we are today. Me, I love where I am, and I’m at peace with who I am. I have no doubt or fear regarding the future, because it seems the farther I go… the more brightly the path before me is lit. Faith is my light.
When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” John 8:12
Please check out my two latest books, JUST A BOY (about my past) and, JUST A MAN(good news and encouragement about the past, present, and future).
Yesterday, I was listening to Christmas music and making apple butter to take to my family in Odessa. As I was doing the cleanup, an upbeat song came on and I started dancing around the kitchen. I was, to put it mildly, loving life.
As I danced, a scene from a few years ago came to mind of a little girl I’d seen dancing and spinning in her front yard. By the looks of the house and yard, the little girl’s life was probably not joyful all day, but that only served to illustrate that she was, at that moment, filled with joy and happiness.
We spend far too much time worrying about where we’re going, and too little time enjoying where we are. Let’s live in the now, be happy, and dance!
“Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 18:3
For a dose of daily encouragement, get a copy of my newest book, JUST A MAN ~ One of His. <— click to visit Amazon
Time with God is like drinking coffee. We sip from the cup of hot brew, and when it begins to cool, we refill it so the heat returns. In the mornings, I refill my heart with the warmth of God’s love. This rekindles the fires within me—the desire to know Him and be a part of His world and His plan.
It’s just me and God in the morning. We talk and we listen—I to Him and He to me. I read, and I write; He watches and smiles. I’m like a child in my search for His knowledge.
I lay my requests before Him each morning, then wait expectantly as I go about my day. Sometimes… I can feel His loving gaze.
And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. 1 Corinthians 13:13
If you have time, take a look at my new book of encouragements, JUST A MAN… One of His. (There’s a video, too!) <— click to see the video!
As I danced, a scene from a few years ago came to mind of a little girl I’d seen dancing and spinning in her front yard. By the looks of the house and yard, the little girl’s life was probably not joyful all day, but that only served to illustrate that she was, at that moment, filled with joy and happiness.
Time with God is like drinking coffee. We sip from the cup of hot brew, and when it begins to cool, we refill it so the heat returns. In the mornings, I refill my heart with the warmth of God’s love. This rekindles the fires within me—the desire to know Him and be a part of His world and His plan.
Buy "Be Still" from WestbowPress.com
