Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear
a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.”
Isaiah 30: 21
With Armed Forces Day and Memorial Day right around the corner, I am reminded of all the great men and women who have gone before us to protect, and defend America’s freedom. I am grateful for their honor and sacrifice and am reminded of the many brave heroes who continue to selflessly serve our country in countless ways each and every day.
As I write this, with flags flapping in the warm spring breeze, just watching the news will tell you that freedom never comes without price. Maybe you’ve realized, and seen that, too.
I continue to pray that the backbone of our citizens will collectively rise up, and that the moral principles that brought us together in the first place, will override the brokenness of our human ways.
Yes, it would be so much easier today to focus upon the traditional first cookout of the season-grilling burgers, watching watermelon juice trickle down our chins, and seeing the kids rush off to play a game of wiffle ball in the yard.
But there remains one way we can all make a difference in our own lives, and to serve others. The one and only freedom that we all have direct access to is the ability to be in a relationship with Jesus Christ.
Jesus Christ transforms lives. I can say this because following Jesus has changed mine.
In John’s Gospel Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (8: 31-32).
As a disciple when we accept Jesus Christ into our lives, turn away from sin, and follow his commands we are no longer slaves. As believers we commit to following Biblical Truths and to a life of prayer where we bring our questions to God, and make our decisions based on Biblical teaching.
As lifelong learners in faith we are molded and shaped into the person God has called us to be. When we are open to becoming a new creation, we recognize that “He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds we have been healed” (1 Peter 2: 24).
Obeying Jesus sets us free from fear, and assures us that we never walk alone. Recognizing evil we put on the armor of God, and are able to stay the course committed to the Gospel message.
Continuing to pray for our country and its leaders, may all who read these words find comfort.
For “truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from him. Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken” (Psalm 62: 1-2).
God is in control.
Let’s pray.
O’ Saving Lord,
How can I ever thank you?
Your love and mercies are freely given every morning.
You died for my sins, conquered the grave, and rose from the dead to bring all who believe the gift of eternal life.
You chose me first, and now I have made my own choice to follow you. As your faithful disciple I commit to reading your Word, walking in faith, and discovering how I can deepen my call to know you, love, and serve you all the days of my life.
Please accept my humble gift of self, as I vow to evolve into the daughter God has called me to be. May I forever seek your wisdom, be generous and openhearted, acknowledging all you have done, and continue to do in my life.
Guide me as I give witness to your deeds serving others. Be with me, loving Lord, as I take that leap of faith to lift others up to you, to build your holy Kingdom.
As I do my part to move this world towards you, Lord, push me out of my comfort zone to continually discover your will over my life, and to cast aside whatever is clouding my view of using my gifts to honor you.
I ask this in your holy name.
Amen.
Until next time…
May the Spirit of God lead you, the Word of God sustain you, and the promises of God grant you the gift of everlasting peace.
With love and blessings...
Enjoy your upcoming holiday!
Invite your friends to subscribe to the Blog at www.faithfirstwomen.com
Follow our Faith First Women Facebook page at http://www.facebook.comFaithFirstWomen or on Instagram for more inspiration throughout the week at https://www.instagram.com/faithfirstwomen.
***
Author of Nourish Your Soul: 7 Secrets for Women Seeking Peace
For questions or inquiries please email sue@faithfirstwomen.com
Comments