but I'm so thrilled by his words, that I thought I'd take this opportunity, while he's in Europe with Jon, where he can't do anything to stop me, to show you the heartwarming Mother's Day gift I received when Grandpa and I visited him and Aunt Deb. As we entered the church that Sunday morning for worship, someone handed me a devotional booklet composed by different members of the church. These thoughts were written by Uncle Jeff.
Allow God to Control
Scripture: When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him, the son of man that you care for him? Psalm 8:3-4
It has taken me many years to really understand how blessed I am. I have a wonderful wife, three great sons, a profession I enjoy, great friends and family, and a church that welcomes me back each week to teach me more. Most Importantly, I have learned to accept God's hand, His grace and mercy in my life. I've always been one to drive myself hard, a real believer of being committed to a purpose and/or a cause. Whether family, personal or professional, I have always strived to give it my all. I have always been a believer that you become what you make of yourself; I have tried to teach my children that as well. I don't think it is necessarily a bad trait but somewhere along the way, if unchecked, it can lead to life centered on self. I think I was on that path, and without an awakening in me that exposed my separation from God, I was destined to an unfulfilled life, one that at best was frustrated having only a "convenient and casual" relationship with the Lord.
We can become so caught up in who we are or what we have accomplished that it becomes a selfish separation from God. Sometimes it is too easy to become full of yourself, to think that you are in total control. I guess we like to know we are in control, or at least feel as though we are. When I meditate, pray and quiet myself, I become very humbled when I recognize what David did in the Psalm. For God to be mindful of me, given His power and deity, can only be understood as His mercy and grace in my life. Being humbled with that understanding, I try to live my life in a way to give back, to not always look for "what's in it for me", after all, who am I when I consider all that God has done.
My prayer is:
Our Father in Heaven, teach us the importance of trusting you. Allow us to live our lives with our eyes open to see those in need around us. We consider the creation of the earth and stars and know how awesome you really are. What a miracle that you offer us a chance to commune and personally know you. Give us the power and courage to accept your control in our lives and to use it to serve others rather than to heap benefits upon ourselves. Give us the strength to acknowledge you in all we do or accomplish and to accept your grace in our lives. Amen
Thanks for letting me share my happiness with you. Uncle Jeff's devotions have a lesson and a prayer we can all make use of. It's just such a thrill to hear it from someone I love and admire so much.
Love you all, CAKFO, Grandma for Grandpa and me
No comments:
Post a Comment