Luke 8
This morning I started my day somewhat weighed down by a concern that I am failing to be who God intends for me. Yet I am uplifted and encouraged by The Parable of the Sower and Jesus' use of the word "persevere". While I consistently practice spiritual disciplines of study and prayer, there are other disciplines which I fail to study consistently and I often feel like I am not growing and maturing into the disciple God desires for me.
I am reminded of a John Piper post I read recently:
Trust the Process: God's at Work in Your Lowest Times
But
the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who
hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop. v15
This morning I started my day somewhat weighed down by a concern that I am failing to be who God intends for me. Yet I am uplifted and encouraged by The Parable of the Sower and Jesus' use of the word "persevere". While I consistently practice spiritual disciplines of study and prayer, there are other disciplines which I fail to study consistently and I often feel like I am not growing and maturing into the disciple God desires for me.
I am reminded of a John Piper post I read recently:
Trust the Process: God's at Work in Your Lowest Times
Therefore,
since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us
throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles.
And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. Hebrews 12:1-2
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves and who helps carry my concerns and burdens for me - thank You Jesus! I am undeserving of all the blessings You pour out for me. I gossip, and I am harsh with my words and actions - please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
