Can we prepare for our day in more influential ways than just picking out our clothes? Bronlynn explains.
“So now you can look forward soberly and intelligently to more of God’s kindness to you when Jesus Christ returns” (I Peter 1:13).
Awhile back, I made a list of certain things that I struggle with on a daily basis and ways to deal with them. My goal is to prepare for each day by giving these requests to God.
To see my life with a heavenly vision rather than an earthly one. I can become so consumed with my earthly limitations that I lose sight of what awaits me in eternity. Remembering my eternal future keeps things in perspective here.
To notice signs of God’s presence. Every day God reveals Himself to me if I only take time to see Him. Whether it’s through nature, an activity, a person, a Scripture, or a song, God is with me.
To love those in my path. My personal problems can cause me to ignore the needs of others. I interact with someone every day, and they all need God’s love.
To not feel inferior to others. I have always struggled with self-confidence, and health problems exacerbate this weakness. I need to remember who I am in Christ–a person of worth and value with specific gifts given to me by Him.
To use my time wisely. I don’t want to use my pain as an excuse for not serving where God is calling, but I also don’t want to unwisely over-extend myself. I need God’s direction each day.
To be content with God’s decisions. I don’t always understand why God allows what He does in my life, but I do know that trusting and surrendering to His plan is the only way to lasting peace and contentment.
To put on the armor. Whether I’m fighting pain, the world, or my own sinfulness, each day is a battle. I can’t fight without the proper protection.
As I lift these requests to God in humility and faith, the day may still be difficult, but I’ll be much better prepared for whatever comes.
Prayer: “In the morning, O Lord, You hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before You and wait in expectation” (Psalm 5:3). Thank You Lord, for hearing, and answering. Amen.
About the author:
Bronlynn Spindler lives in North Carolina and is blessed to have the support and encouragement of a wonderful husband, three daughters, and their husbands. God’s grace and strength have brought her through thyroid cancer and continue to sustain her through ongoing back pain, depression, headaches, multiple sensitivities, and fibromyalgia. You may view her blog of devotionals at http://www.aplaceofsprings57.blogspot.com.
Do you prepare yourself for each day? If not, how might God be leading you to do so?
This is Ragamuffin Band singing “Make Me An Instrument.” So often we read the Word and see the changes God wishes to make, and then feel overwhelmed by it all. And then as the day proceeds we fail and we feel guilty. We were never meant to be able to do the things God asks of us without His help! He wants us to come to Him, to ask for help, for wisdom, guidance and more. Don’t forget to ask for His help! -Lisa
Chronic Illness Pain Daily Devotionals 