The Potter's Hand

"Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers." Luke 22:31-32

What a frightening thought. Satan asked to sift Peter as wheat. I wonder how many times Satan has stood before God and inquired about me? And I wonder how many times Jesus has prayed on my behalf.

The interesting thing is: Jesus didn't pray against the sifting. He prayed that Simon's faith would withstand the test. My guess is that Jesus has often prayed the same for me. Sifting has a purpose. It separates the coarse from the fine. Ultimately, it purifies, but the process of refinement can be a painful one.

Lord, do I have what it takes to strengthen my brothers after the sifting? Or will I be ashamed by my lack of faith? You know the many times I have been sifted. You know the lessons I have learned through failure, then those I learned through turning back to You. But I am afraid. I fear rejection. I fear the sieve awaits me again.

Purify my heart, so I may follow You. Purify my heart, so You may be glorified!

Now the Lord God had formed out of the ground all the beasts of the field and all the birds of the air. He brought them to the man to see what he would name them; and whatever the man called each living creature, that was its name. Genesis 2:19

The authority to name... Who has it? Parents name their children. An inventor names his inventions. A songwriter names his songs.

Just think about it - God gave man the power to name all of creation. With this authority and power comes great responsibility. Do we take this power seriously? With a name or a word, we can curse or we can bless - because God has given us the power to do so.

Lord, help me to grasp the awesome responsibility of calling others out - of naming them - of blessing them. My children gain their identity from what I call them. My wife is either built up or torn down by the power of my words. Let others hear Your voice when I am speaking; let them see Your hands when I serve.

Name me what You choose, Father. I am Yours.

Terah took his son Abram, his grandson Lot son of Haran, and his daughter-in-law Sarai, the wife of his son Abram, and together they set out from Ur of the Chaldeans to go to Canaan. But when they came to Haran, they settled there. Genesis 11:31

After the flood, God commanded the people to be fruitful and multiply on the earth, yet in one hundred years, the people hadn't moved. They decided to build a city that honored themselves, instead of filling the earth and honoring God. It took God confusing their language before they scattered.

Doesn't it normally take an act of God before men will step out into His will? Our pride so often holds us back.

Less than two hundred years later, another man chose to settle in one place rather than moving to where God had originally drawn him. Terah was the father of Abram, who later became Abraham the father of Isaac and the nation of Israel. Terah had three sons, Abram, Nahor, and Haran. Haran died while Terah was still alive, and I wonder if the grief of his death kept Terah from completely stepping out into God's will.

One day Terah took Abram, Abram's wife Sarai, and Haran's son Lot, and they set out for Canaan. Somewhere along the way, he stopped. The writer of Genesis states that when they came to Haran, they settled there. Now, there were no maps in those days with the name "Haran" on them. Terah didn't get there and say, "Oh, look. This place is named after my son. I think I'll stay here." No. There was something about this place that made Terah stop and say, "I will settle here, and I will name this place after the son I lost."

This isn't necessarily a bad thing. Terah had fulfilled God's command to multiply on the earth. But Canaan was his destination. Somewhere along the way, he settled. It may have been his grief. It may have been the location of Haran. Maybe he just liked it. But was it where God wanted him? It wasn't where God wanted Abram. A day would come when Abram would take Sarai and Lot, and they would complete the journey Terah had begun.

Lord, what is it that holds me back from stepping out into Your will? Is it pride? Is it grief? Am I afraid? Or do I just like it where I am? You have been challenging me in so many ways, but can I trust You? My lack of trust is based in fear - not in Your provision. You always provide.

Thank You, Lord, for the opportunities to step out. What an amazing experience I have had in the last twenty-four hours. As I write this, I am sitting in a home that belongs to one of the best-known Christian music artists of our day. Could I settle here? Sure! What a beautiful place. But where do You want me? That is where I want to be.

Help me to reach Your intended destination, Lord, and may You be honored along the way.

At that time Abimelech and Phicol the commander of his forces said to Abraham, “God is with you in everything you do.” Genesis 21:22

Abimelech and Abraham didn’t have the best relationship. Abraham lied about Sarah’s identity, and trouble came to Abimelech’s household after he took Sarah to be his wife. In the end, God protected Sarah and restored peace to Abimelech’s home, but the relationship with Abraham must have been awkward.

Even with Abraham’s deception, however, Abimelech could see something was different. God was with Abraham, and everyone around him could tell. Despite his imperfection, God was glorified.

Lord, I want the world to see past my imperfection. I want all who are around me to see Your hand. I want them to say, “God is with you in everything you do.”

So often, I get in the way. So often, I try to go it alone.

Help me, Lord, to reflect Your glory. May You be seen in me today.

So Jacob was left alone, and a man wrestled with him till daybreak. Genesis 32:24

Why has my whole life seemed like a wrestling match? Am I like Jacob? Am I trying to succeed in my own strength at every turn?

Jacob changed. Exactly what brought about the change, I don't know. But somewhere along the way, his selfish heart began to soften. He began to care more about the people in his life than about what he could grab from them. Jacob grabbed Esau's heel at birth. He grabbed his brother's birthright and blessing. He grabbed his wives and flocks from Laban. Oh, he worked hard along the way, but he seemed to grab hold of all these things and pull them in tightly saying, "These are what make me who I am. See how much I have achieved!"

But while going back home to the land God had promised him, we witness a change. Jacob acknowledged that everything he acquired was due to God's blessing. He originally crossed the Jordan river with his staff alone. He now returned a wealthy man with many children. As Esau's men approached, Jacob sent out gifts. Then finally, he sent his family and possessions ahead as he stayed behind for the night. He let go of all he had acquired.

It was then that God wrestled with him face to face.

Lord, why do I wrestle so? I know the truth: You give more than I could ever grab for myself. Yet life is still a struggle.

You have given me inspiration and understanding in order to teach, yet I struggle with trying to shine because of my knowledge. In the end, I look stupid.

You have given me talents that bless and inspire others, yet I struggle in sharing them with a pure heart. In the end, I too often desire the praise and affirmation of men.

You have given me a loving and affectionate wife and two wonderful children, yet I struggle to love them as I should. In the end, I fear I could choose to pursue my lusts over them. I could lose everything.

Continue to protect me, Lord, from this nature inside that would choose the world instead of You. Wrestle with me for as long as it takes; wrench me if You must. I long to be in Your grip. Hold me tightly - face to face.

"So let my lord go on ahead of his servant..." Genesis 33:14a

Jacob finally got it! All his life, he had been trying to gain control. Before Jacob was even born, God told his mother, "the older will serve the younger," referring to how Esau would one day be under Jacob's authority. It seems that Jacob spent so much time and energy trying to make it happen.

When the day came for Jacob's return to Canaan, his words and actions toward Esau indicate that he finally got it. He finally understood what it is to be a leader. To lead requires servanthood. To lead requires sacrifice. To lead requires humility. Jacob bowed to his brother. He gave of himself, and he spoke with a reticence that was uncommon for him.

Lord, I want to be a servant leader. My new job is taking off. My new responsibilities as a supervisor are more fun that I expected. I am amazed at the blessing You have given me. Help me to be humble. Let the first word others use when they speak of me be "servant." Let them see You in me. You are the Greatest Servant of all time. Make me more like You.

But when Pharaoh saw that there was relief, he hardened his heart and would not listen to Moses and Aaron, just as the Lord had said. Exodus 8:15

In the heart of the moment, we cry out!

In the face of terror, we believe!

It is said there are not atheists in foxholes. Men who face the horrors of battle pray to God, fully believing He can save them.

But what happens the moment we find relief? Pharaoh summoned Moses and Aaron pleading for them to pray for relief from the plague of frogs. As soon as the frogs were gone, he hardened his heart. Once they were gone, he refused to believe.

Aren't we like that? When life is full of crises, we pray continually. When we are content, our hearts grow hard.

Lord, for so long I have struggled to seek You in the good times. You are so easily forgotten. In an odd way, I believe I have held onto the darkness, so I could feel Your light save me.

Help me to live in the light and to feel Your presence ever so strongly because I am there. Soften my heart. Keep me from hardening it, so I might be molded without first being broken. Lay Your hands on me today.

When Pharaoh let the people go, God did not lead them on the road through the Philistine country though that was shorter. For God said, "If they face war, they might change their minds and return to Egypt." Exodus 13:17

The Israelites finally left Egypt. The trip could have been relatively short. There were trade routes commonly used between Canaan and Egypt, yet God led them around by the desert road. He led them toward the Red Sea, which seemed the opposite direction from their final destination.

God oftentimes chooses the long road rather than the short one. Behind it all, God has plans we would never understand.

Lord, I feel like I have been on the long desert road. I know You were protecting the Israelites from war by sending them into the desert. Are You doing the same with me? Are You somehow protecting me from turning back to my old life by leading me the long way?

Ten years of growth on my healing journey seems like a lifetime. I have failed in so many ways. But You love me still. At the same time, I have grown.

Help me to continue on this path, Father. Give me the strength and resolve to one day cross over into the Promised Land of Your eternal kingdom. Be my Guide along the way.

"The enemy boasted, 'I will pursue, I will overtake them. I will divide the spoils; I will gorge myself on them. I will draw my sword and my hand will destroy them.' But you blew with your breath, and the sea covered them. They sank like lead in the mighty waters." Exodus 15:9-10

Do we take the time to remember the miracles of God's salvation? Do we contemplate the ways the enemy has been destroyed? Or do we spend our time only considering how we have fallen short - how the enemy has won at times - how we may never measure up to God's righteousness?

Moses took the time to celebrate the salvation of God. The enemy was crushed by the mighty waters, and the Israelites danced and sang. They commemorated the event with praise. Do I take the time to remember what God has done? Or am I too hung up on reaching the next goal - on receiving praise rather than passing it along to my Savior?

Lord, I had a friend challenge me yesterday. He challenged me to contemplate how far I have come rather than focusing on the distance yet to be traveled. Have I slighted You? Have I forgotten to praise You for the ways my enemies have fallen?

This week marks five months of a new commitment to self-control in my life. Help me to celebrate that fact! It has been a daily battle - a battle of conscious choices to turn from temptations that have haunted me for years. How did it all begin? Five months ago I met a man whose mere sobriety challenged me. Today, he is my friend - my accountability partner - my confidant, and he continues to challenge me to seek after holiness. Through him, You have provided the support I need to walk in Your will.

Father, You are highly exalted! My enemy has been crushed. You are my constant Protector and Guide. This journey may have left me weary and worn, but together we have come so far. Today, I choose to celebrate. I choose to honor You with joy and praise. Thank You, Lord, for all You have done. Thank You for the support You have given me. Continue to reign in my heart, so that five months from now - five years - we will still be celebrating!

The buds and the branches were all of one piece with the lampstand, hammered out of pure gold. Exodus 37:22

I've done many things, but I've never worked with gold before. The idea that one can take many pieces of gold and literally form them into one piece by hammering them is fascinating to me.

My medium is clay. With a little water and the right amount of pressure, beautiful artwork can result. Clay is easy to mold. I've always enjoyed the analogy of God as the Potter. To have Him place His hands on me to make me into a vessel of His choosing - how wonderful it is.

But I'm not so sure about Him as Goldsmith. It takes hours or hammering. That seems a bit uncomfortable to me. The idea, though, of God as Goldsmith is probably the most appropriate one. How much more work it takes to pound me into shape!

Lord, I long to be one with You. I know I should willingly say: do what it takes... if it is the hammer I require, then do what You must.

Couldn't You just speak me into shape?

Fire came out from the presence of the Lord and consumed the burnt offering and the fat portions on the altar. And when all the people saw it, they shouted for joy and fell facedown. Leviticus 9:24

God was pleased. Aaron did everything he was commanded. The burnt offering was laid upon the altar, and God literally reached out and took it. Everything was consumed, and the people shouted for joy.

Lord, there is nothing more exciting than pleasing You. For You to reach out and receive the offerings I present to You brings a satisfaction that no earthly pleasure can match. But how often do I cling to the offerings I should give You, rather than freely laying them down?

Aaron put the offering upon the altar, then he stepped away. It was then that You took it. If he had remained, he would have been in Your way. He would have been consumed by the fire.

Help me, Jesus, to lay down my sacrifice - then to step down out of Your way. Forgive me for holding fast to the things that belong to You. I want to please You and You alone.

Be my all-consuming fire today!

"After than, the priest must wash his clothes and bathe himself with water. He may then come into the camp, but he will be ceremonially unclean until evening." Numbers 19:7

God established an ordinance for using ashes and water to purify those made unclean by a dead body. Interestingly, the steps required of the priest for preparing the ashes made him ceremonially unclean; in order for others to be made clean, the priest was made unclean.

The reality is: it takes getting your hands dirty for something to be made clean. We are an example of that. Jesus had to die in order to bring life. There is no easy way around the pain. We cannot be made clean without it.

Lord, a day is coming when I will finally feel clean, but it will take lots of dirty work along the way. Give me the courage to do what it takes. Make me clean. Do not cast me out from Your presence.

"'In addition to what you vow and your freewill offerings, prepare these for the Lord at your appointed feasts: your burnt offerings, grain offerings, drink offerings and fellowship offerings.'" Numbers 29:39

For years the Israelites had been celebrating God's appointed feasts. As they were preparing to enter the promised land, God reminded them of these feasts. Yet He seemed to require more. When compared to His earlier command, God's reminder is filled with detail not previously recorded. The specifics about each sacrifice were omitted from Leviticus, yet they appear in the Book of Numbers.

Why the difference, Lord? Why does Scripture not record the sacrificial ordinance with the original command? Did you not require specific animals before this time? Is this something new?

I guess this is a good analogy of the Christian life. From the beginning, we have only one thing in mind - salvation through the blood of Jesus Christ. Yet, the longer we walk this journey, the more detailed the requirements become. Oh, we are always to walk in grace and mercy. But in addition, we are to understand the importance of humility - the importance of doing justly. The mature Christian is more often concerned with others than himself. To expect full understanding of these things by a new Christian is like expecting a child to understand the ways of an adult.

Lord, am I ready for new things - for new detail in my walk with You? I long to be near You. I long to understand the deep things of God. Is it time to grow up? Give me Your understanding, so I might love mercy, do justly, and walk humbly by Your side.

But because of you the Lord was angry with me and would not listen to me. "That is enough," the Lord said. "Do not speak to me anymore about this matter." Deuteronomy 3:26

Moses messed up, and he had to face the consequence. His anger caused him to strike a rock rather than speaking to it. Instead of honoring God, he took control. For this, he could not enter the promised land.

Yet, it appears he didn't stop asking. God finally told him, "Do not speak to me anymore about this matter." It seems like God is saying, "Alright, already! Quit asking; My answer is NO."

Lord, I don't like it when Your answer is "no." I realize that consequence is a part of life, but I selfishly want my way all the time. Help me to accept Your will. Help me to honor You. Forgive the ways I dishonor You.

"The Lord your God will drive out those nations before you, little by little. You will not be allowed to eliminate them all at once, or the wild animals will multiply around you." Deuteronomy 7:22

God's plan is more often gradual than it is immediate. The Israelites were assured that the promised land would be theirs. The nations before them would be driven out - little by little. God planned this to protect His children. They were not yet large enough to occupy the entire land, and the wild animals would overrun the cities that were to be their inheritance.

Lord, too often I grumble that my desire for righteousness hasn't been met in a more timely fashion. I know You have a plan. Sometimes, I grow weary from waiting. But when I consider Your reasons, I am grateful. Time continues to build into me compassion, understanding - strength of character. Help me to be patient, Lord. I trust You. Help me to honor You in all I do today and in the days to follow.

You may say to yourselves, "How can we know when a message has not been spoken by the Lord?" Deuteronomy 18:21

How do we know God's voice?

The answer is pretty simple. If it comes true, it was Him. If it never happens, it wasn't.

Lord, I don't know if I like this - waiting to know if it was You speaking. Okay, if something doesn't happen, it wasn't You, but I could wait my whole life to discover I listened to something else. My desire is to clearly hear Your voice and to know beyond all doubt that it is You.

This is where Your Spirit makes the difference. Most real communication occurs within the context of relationship. Through a relationship with Your Son, we no longer need to wonder. I can know it is You because I know Your heart.

Father, I want to know You. I want to hear Your voice. Fill me with Your Spirit. Protect me from the evil one.

”I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

Life really boils down to two things: Jesus Christ or the world. With Jesus, we find peace. With the world, we find trouble. Understanding this, how could I ever find myself choosing the world over Christ? But I wonder… Is my intention to abandon what I know to be right? Do I actually choose one over the other?

If I am faced with the choice, if I have the time to stand back and weigh the options, if I look at the fork in the road fully knowing that one path leads to pain and the other leads to joy, wouldn’t Christ be my only choice? I would like to think so, but I know that my human nature can be a strong foe.

The truth is that when I am faced with the options, there are times I don’t really want to choose; there are times I hesitate. This indecision – this hesitation, can often be my downfall.

You see, Jesus forces Himself upon no one. He gives us the freedom to choose. The world, on the other hand, will force itself upon us every time. Isn’t it interesting that two of my greatest struggles in life are apathy and procrastination? If I could learn to choose Christ in the immediate, maybe peace would not so often elude me.

Father, make me a decisive man who confidently chooses Christ the moment I am faced with the choice between Your way and the world’s way. Help me to overcome the world. Help me to choose You – in the immediate.

The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell. James 3:16

Little things. A spark, a crack, a drip - all of these are relatively little things that can result in utter disaster - a raging forest fire, a collapsed dam, a ruined home. Isn't it interesting how the entire course of one's life is often changed by little things? One late night argument can plant fear in a child that haunts him for his entire life. One seductive wink can lead to actions that could destroy a marriage and devastate a family. One tiny cell can affect others in the body, causing cancer that slowly takes a life.

Most of life can be traced to a series of little things. Good and evil are put into motion by singular choices that are made.

My own marriage began with one phone conversation between two teenagers. Praise the Lord, my wife saw past the exterior into my heart. We've had our share of rocky times - normally caused by a single choice I have made. But my wife's singular choices to love me - to forgive me when I need it, have carried us through when most others would have called it quits.

Lord, help me to be mindful of the little things that can completely change the course of my life. Help me to choose wisely so I can walk in Your will. Make me a man of whom You can be proud.

For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by me and Silas and Timothy, was not "Yes" and "No," but in him it has always been "Yes." 2 Corinthians 1:19

Is your life about "No," or is it about "Yes"? Do you spend every day running from the things you should not do? Or is your time spent focused on the good - on the things that always have the answer of "Yes"?

I believe these two questions reflect the struggle Christians so often face. Is your life about religion? Or is it about relationship?

Religion in its truest sense is all about "No" It's about the "thou shalt nots" in life. It's about falling in line and quickly getting into step - then not straying from the path.

Relationship, on the other hand, is about "Yes." It's about trusting and following the person of Jesus Christ. It's about keeping our eyes so focused on Him that there is nowhere else we would choose to walk but on His path.

Lord, I really like the "Yes" things in my life. I have been so blessed to establish friendships that are bringing me great joy. So much is about "Yes." Acceptance, affirmation, accountability, and authority - these are all signs of godly relationships that are calling me to holy manhood.

Unfortunately, like every man I have had my share of "No" things in life. There are friendships that have been broken because one or both of us stepped off the path.

Forgive me, Lord, for straying away. Help me to say "Yes" to Christ everyday. Help me to walk where He walks. Help me to stand where He stands. Make my life into what You planned - less about religion - more about relationship.

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old is gone, the new has come! 2 Corinthians 5:17

If I am new, why do I feel so old? No matter how often I remind myself that I am in Christ, I feel weak - unable to overcome this world of sin. This makes me feel like the old man again.

Tiny frustrations turn to anger. Quick glimpses entice me to approach the verge of lust. Past sins haunt me in order to keep me emotionally vulnerable.

Are these signs of a new man - a new creation in Christ? No.

These are all signs of a worldly man who cares more for his own body than he does the body of Christ. These are reflections of the earthly body and will be forever forgotten when we are in heaven.

The fact is: it is not our bodies that have been made new. It is our spirits. As long as we live in these bodies, we will experience the consequence that comes with them. We will feel like the old because our bodies have not been recreated yet. We are not what we feel. We are no longer our own, but His.

Lord, when I am reminded that I am still living in a temporary home, remind me that this "temporary" is not me. It is what I once was, but am no more. Bring strength to my spirit, Father. Help me to walk side by side with You today.

For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich. 2 Corinthians 8:9

Can I even begin to understand what Jesus did? He left the riches of heaven and embraced the utter poverty of this world - all out of love for me. He knew that it would take His very death to bring me life, and He did it anyway.

Sometimes when I consider His action, skepticism begins to rise in me. Seriously, how tough would it be for Jesus? He was God. He knew how the story ended. He know who would ultimately win the war. But then I realize - although He is God, Jesus is also fully man. This is impossible for me to completely comprehend, but it is true.

As a man, could I give up the wealth of heaven for the sake of another? As a man, He did.

How?! Could I have done the same?

I believe the answer is "Yes." But it isn't in my strength - only in His. The Holy Spirit is THAT powerful. He could take the likes of me and use me to bring about whatever He chooses. What it takes on my part is what it took Jesus - the complete surrender of my will for the Father's will. The sooner I realize that it's not about me, the sooner He can accomplish His purpose in me.

Jesus, the most amazing truth is that You, a mere man, could face every temptation I have faced, and You did not fall. You are worthy of all honor and glory. Your complete sacrifice on my behalf astounds me. I guess I'm not as unlovable as I so often think. Help me to grasp this knowledge. Help me to surrender to You. Perform miracles in me and through me. Use me in the way of Your choosing.

Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you - unless, of course, you fail the test? 2 Corinthians 13:5

If Christianity required that we take a test, would I pass it? If someone were to closely examine my life, what would he find? Would there be evidence of His presence? There would certainly be secrets that might shock a few, but would someone see Him? And how long would that search require?

My prayer is that Jesus Christ is evident, even to the casual observer. If it takes close examination in order to see Him, I need to make a change.

Lord, my only hope is Christ in me. I long to live a life that reflects You. Sometimes I still miss the mark. Sometimes I still hide in the dark.

Help me to pass the test.

Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal bodies so that you obey its evil desires. Romans 6:12

A Christian's struggle with sin is not a new phenomenon. Accepting Christ as Savior doesn't flip some magical switch that instantly transforms us. We are still mortal. We still reside in this body that has been trained to seek out what is contrary to God's plan. Evil desires are a part of the human condition, and sin is not easily removed from our bodies.

Lord, there are certain things about myself that I am learning to accept. The evil desires in me, although I hate to admit it, are a part of who I am. Surrendering to righteousness does not require that I change these desires, for they come with the territory; they are a part of this fallen world. Surrendering to righteousness involves turning from the desires my body has come to know.

Help me, Lord, to die to sin. Help me to disregard the evil my body desires. Help me to seek holiness today.

For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, "Abba, Father." Romans 8:15

I am so tired of being afraid. For much of my life, I have been a slave to fear. How easily I forget that I have received a Spirit of sonship. The next time I sense that sin is watching - the next time I find myself face to face with temptation, I need to remember these words: "My Dad is bigger than your dad; He can take your dad any day!"

Lord, when sin reaches out to introduce himself to me, I too often find myself trembling in fear. Alone, I am too weak to fight it. But I know You are with me. Give me the confidence to say, "You don't own me!" I belong to You, Father. Hold me close. Fight the battles for me. Help me to see victory in this life!

But who are you, O man, to talk back to God? "Shall what is formed say to him who formed it, 'Why did you make me like this?'" Romans 9:20

Paul asks the question, "Who are you to talk back to God?" He's right. Who are we to question God - to doubt His perfect will? But we do it anyway.

Possibly the most amazing truth is: God lets us!

He is big enough to handle our questions and doubts. His esteem is not damaged if we talk back to Him. He loves us and will never turn away if we cast undeserved blame on Him.

Many ask, "Why did you make me like this?" If we were puppets, unable to make a free will choice, this might be a valid question. But God doesn't make us to sin; He allows us to sin. His will is never to harm us, but to prosper us.

Lord, there are many who cast the blame on You. "Why did you make me like this?" If I believe the lies of the world that our genes determine our disposition, I might be asking the same question. But I know the truth. You have carried me through - despite the sinner I have become. Circumstances and choices make us who we are. Every one of them, You allow. And everything You allow has a purpose. Every bit of it can draw us back to You - if we allow it.

Help me, Spirit, to see the truth in every circumstance. Help me to understand how my choices have great power to form me. I long to be formed by You. Place Your loving hands on my heart.

Keep me from pride.

But if their transgression means riches for the world, and their loss means riches for the Gentiles, how much greater riches will their fullness bring! Romans 11:12

It is truly amazing how God can use failure to bring about success. The Hebrews, His chosen children, rejected Him. When they were given the opportunity to walk with His Son - to exalt Him - to follow Him, they chose to crucify Him instead. Yet it was Christ's crucifixion and subsequent that brought salvation to the world.

Life from Death.

Paul was a Jew. Although he was the apostle to the Gentiles, he never lost the love for his own people. He spoke of their rebellion with sadness, and he acknowledged that it was the hardening of their hearts that opened the door for salvation. But Paul poses a consideration: "How much greater will their fullness bring!" If rebellion brought salvation, what wonderful things would come from obedience?

It isn't easy to admit, but I love rebellion. Not only does it bring momentary pleasure, but in some twisted way I have come to believe that it draws me closer to God. I know this is foolishness. The truth is that rebellion pulls me away from God. But somehow, I've turned it around. I almost enjoy falling in the pit, because it is in the pit that God has held me the tightest.

Lord, I'm having a tough time grasping the idea of holiness. What does it look like to follow You and You alone? It seems when I draw closer to You, I sabotage myself. If I were to let go of my sinful nature, how will I be drawn to You?

I am afraid.

Help me to see that letting go - that giving You the reins - will bring life as I could never have imagined it. How much greater will fullness bring! Let me see it in this lifetime.

For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish. Psalm 1:6

If we were all completely honest, what is it that most of us want in life? I believe the answer boils down to one word: PLEASURE.

Even the most melancholy of individuals wants to enjoy life. Oftentimes, a strange delight can be found in the sadness. Depression - despite how painful it can be - provides a sense of comfort; at least it is something familiar.

Eventually, we lose the sense of satisfaction that may have been discovered, and the search continues for that new source of fulfillment - for that next fix - for that pleasure. Once we find it, we might be pleased for a moment. But again, even it will fade.

There is another way.

Seeking the Lord brings satisfaction that lasts far beyond this lifetime. Meditating on His Word and striving continually to hear His voice open the door to pleasures untold, for when we seek to know Him we experience intimacy never known between two human beings. We come to understand that we are truly known by Him - that He knew us before the very foundations of the earth were laid. He longs to be intimately involved in the journey. He watches over every step we might take.

Lord, I have been on a journey. Sometimes, I have gone my own way. Other times, I have followed Your way. Your way is always best. No matter the pleasure I may find on my own paths, it always seems to perish in my hands. Help me, Lord, for I have embarked on a new path. For possibly the first time, I am starting to see beyond the horizon. There is so much in store. Let my greatest delight come from knowing You.

You hear, O Lord, the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry, defending the fatherless and the oppressed. Psalm 10:17-18a

Have you ever known someone who seems to crave oppression? Someone who always ends up as a victim? It sounds ridiculous. Who in their right mind would desire affliction?

No matter how outrageous it sounds, there is comfort in being a victim, for a victim is not responsible for the crime. Oh, he may have contributed to the circumstance. How many defense attorneys have tried to shift the blame: "If she hadn't been so provocatively dressed..."?

There is something about being oppressed that is almost addictive. When one lives life constantly falling down, there is little expectation for him to produce - to succeed - to lead the way. A weak man is rarely expected to guide the strong, so there is safety in weakness. How can you fail, if you never try? If you are never expected to lead?

O Lord, I have trusted You in weakness, but can I trust You in strength? I am so afraid of failure that I sometimes quit the race rather than losing it. If I show myself to be strong, if my wife sees me as a leader in our home, if my employer sees me as a leader at work... what will happen if I fail? I am afraid others will learn the truth: I am not strong; I am weak.

But there is a greater truth: I am weak; You are strong.

Father, help me to stop being a victim. Help me to grab hold of life. Help me to understand that it isn't about my success or failure; it is about Your glory. If I fail, others can be encouraged by the way You bring about success. Fill me with joy. Fill me with strength. Help me to no longer desire affliction, but to desire You.

... who keeps his oath even when it hurts. Psalm 15:4b

An oath - a vow - a commitment... Each one requires resolve. Each one requires diligence. Each one requires sacrifice. Are these merely the same thing?

An oath is something that is taken. "I... do solemnly swear to support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic..." This is said by every man or woman who enters the United States military - from the lowest private to the Command-in-Chief. These words require a soldier to stay the course - to defend our country and its foundation - even to the point of death.

A vow is something that is given. "In token and pledge, I give you this ring as a symbol of my constant faith and abiding love..." Words similar to these are spoken by every man and woman who enter the vow of marriage. They require a spouse to stay the course - to remain side by side - till death do us part.

A commitment is something that is made. It is standing by a friend through thick and thin. It is the embodiment of the same resolve, diligence, and sacrifice required by an oath - by a vow.

What is it that makes these so similar?

An oath is taken, a vow is given, a commitment is made... even when it hurts.

Lord, I don't know if I like this fact; being mature and responsible will cause pain. But it helps me to understand why some people never really grow up - why I still struggle to this day. When everything in life seems to have caused pain, why would I choose more?

Father, help me to see that pain is a part of life, but staying the course - even when it hurts - will bring rewards beyond anything this life can bring. Let me dwell in Your sanctuary today.

And I - in righteousness I will see your face; when I awake, I will be satisfied with seeing your likeness. Psalm 17:15

When you look in the mirror every morning, what do you see? What likeness do you see?

Do you see a man who is full of guilt? Maybe you see a man who is broken by his sin, a man who can never seem to get it all together. Maybe you see a man who, despite how hard he tries, constantly falls down, a man ruled by his desires, his habits, his addictions.

Do you see a man trapped by the evil of the world?

Or do you see a man who is free from guilt? Maybe you see a man whose will has been broken by the very hand of God, a man who turns to the Spirit to keep it all together. Maybe you see a man who understands God's grace and has quit trying to do it on his own, a man who no longer hides in the darkness but dances in the light.

Do you see the very likeness of God?

If you don't, maybe you should. We are all created in God's image. Every time we look in the mirror, it is Him we should see. We were not meant to look like the world.

Lord, for so many years it has been painful to look in the mirror. How many times have I stood wondering, "Who is that man? How has he fallen so far away? Will he ever overcome the wounds of the enemy?" But truly, it is Your intention - Your hope - that the likeness we see in the mirror is Yours, for that is how You made us to be.

For most of my life, I have struggled with my self-image; I have struggled to face the man in the mirror. Even God's grace wasn't enough to change my opinion. But something is happening, Lord. You are healing me. You are giving me eyes that can see Your image more clearly each time I look in the mirror. Now, I can see a man who has been set free by the blood of Christ.

How marvelous You are! How wonderful is Your grace! How beautiful is the likeness I see!

May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed. Psalm 20:4

What is the desire of your heart?

We all have one, but does anyone really know what it is? Is there something we can do to identify it?

Like the leaves on a tree, the desire of the heart seems to change with the seasons of life. A child longs to live a carefree life. An adult quickly learns that there is no such thing as a carefree life. A child strives for independence - a chance to solve his own problems. An adult would sometimes give anything he could for someone else to solve the problems in life.

How can I ever know if this desire has been met if I cannot name it?

God's ways are not our ways. To be truly free, I must release my grip on freedom - sacrificing my free will for God's will. To be truly independent, I must become fully dependent - trusting in the Lord for the smallest things everyday.

Lord, it seems my whole life has been an expedition - a search to discover the greatest desire of my heart. But I've been looking in the wrong place! I will never find it by looking in my own heart. I will never find it by looking the hearts of those around me. The only way to find it - the only way to give it a name - is to look in Your heart.

Jesus, what is Your greatest desire? When I find it, I will have discovered my own. Give me the desire of my heart, Father. Let Your desire be mine today.

Through the victories you gave, his glory is great; you have bestowed on him splendor and majesty. Psalm 21:5

There are many Psalms that David wrote about the king. He honored the king and his success.

Wait a minute! David IS the king. He was speaking in third person, and he was honoring himself. This seems a little proud to me.

Despite his failures, David had an uncanny knack for seeing himself from the outside-in rather than the inside-out. In truth, this is something we should all do every once in awhile. Can I remember examining my life from the outside? I'm too often stuck on the inside. I can't seem to see the real picture: God is blessing me!

Lord, we should all be living examined lives. Without accountability and support from the outside, I would be in a very different place. Normally, I too often examine my imperfections from the inside without acknowledging what I do well. This has left me with a miserable picture of this man - who was created in Your image.

Spirit, begin to weave into me a new understanding of the ways I have been blessed. If I cannot rejoice in the blessings, how can I ever share them with others? Help me to look at myself and say, "Hey - he's getting it together. God has bestowed splendor and majesty upon him."

My feet stand on level ground; in the great assembly I will praise the Lord. Psalm 26:12

Life is such a climb. It seems every day is filled with mountains to ascend. The higher you go, the tougher it seems to be. But it is all for a purpose.

There is level ground at the top.

Lord, I'm weary from climbing. I'm afraid I could easily slip and fall down the mountainside. Thank You for sending fellow climbers into my life who encourage me - who keep me from falling - who even carry me when I can go no farther.

Place my feet on level ground today. Help me to honor You in all I do.

You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy. Psalm 30:11

There comes a point when the mourning is over. Tears are more controlled. Anger subsides. Laughter comes without guilt. The mourning clothes are stored away.

With any loss there is grief. When the grief ends, life begins.

A friend of mine has died. His death has been the toughest challenge of my life. He was closer to me than a brother. Every step along the way, he took with me. Every word I spoke, he heard. Every dream I had, he shared. There is nothing that he didn't know about me. I have been grieving his loss. I have tried to deny he is gone, but through the acceptance of his death, I can truly begin to live.

The one who has died is me - the old me, the man who tried to woo the love of the world - the one who, deep down, believed he was unlovable.

He is no longer. Now, I am free.

Father, what has happened to me? For so many years I tried to breathe life into a dead man, but only You can give life. For so many years I mourned - not knowing exactly why, but the mourning is over. It is time to put away the sackcloth. It is time to clothe myself with joy. It is time to dance.

Would You care to dance with me?

How great is your goodness, which you have stored up for those who fear you, which you bestow in the sight of men on those who take refuge in you. Psalm 31:19

When God is really working in your life, others will see it. The goodness He bestows on us cannot be hidden, and those who know us best will start to say, "You have changed."

What wonderful words to hear! What a wonderful God He is!

Lord, You have bestowed on me good things, and others have noticed. What a blessing You are! What a blessing it is to be free from the pit. Help me to only fear You. Keep me far from the darkness. I never want to return. My greatest desire is to stay in the light where others can see the works of Your hands. Glory be to Your Name!

If the Lord delights in a man's way, he makes his steps firm; though he stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand. Psalm 37:28-24

I think I'm an expert at falling down. If it were an olympic sport, I would have won the gold medal by now. Throughout my life I have discovered so many new and creative ways to start something with passion and fail miserably. It is almost an art form.

But through it all, the Lord has chosen to reach out, to grab hold of me, and to set my feet firmly on solid ground. By His amazing grace, He has given me the chance to start again.

Lord, this time is going to be different. Hold me in Your grip like never before. I want to literally be attached to You, so I will no longer lose my footing. Forgive me, Father, for my failures. Quiet the mouth of the enemy. I am not the wicked man he wants me to believe. I am Yours.

I wait for you, O Lord; you will answer, O Lord my God. Psalm 38:15

When I was younger, I prayed for patience not realizing how God normally answers this request. He taught me patience by making me wait. There were tough things - like waiting for the right job. There were exciting things - like waiting for babies to be born. But the story I always tell people is how God taught me patients when I started working with clay.

Clay - like many circumstances - won't be rushed. Moving too quickly on the wheel can result in a pretty big mess. Forcing the clay to drive too quickly can result in unwanted cracks, rendering a piece useless. Like most potters, I learned the hard way - working with clay takes patience.

The truth is though, I may be a more patient man than I once was (ask my wife), but I still hate to wait (ask my wife).

Lord, will I ever really learn this lesson of waiting? I'm always in such a hurry to get to the next step. I so often forget to linger - to slow down enough to notice the little things. I so often forget to savor - to enjoy the pleasures of being alive.

Father, I'm going to try hesitating when my normal response is to hurry. I'm going to try watching for You when my normal response is to go it alone. Help me to slow down today. Come, Lord Jesus.

I'll be waiting.

The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise. Psalm 51:17

People have often told me that I am like David - a man after God's own heart. I'm not sure how I feel about this. What a compliment, but what a challenge!

Like David, my deepest desire is to glorify God. And unfortunately like David, I make lots of mistakes that are far from glorifying to Him. Sometimes I feel like I redefine the phrase, "We are all human."

God has blessed me with many talents, yet I have always struggled with how I see myself. I believe David struggled here as well. Although God's praise is far better that the praise of men, it can be devastating when others point out my faults. This is what happened to David. The prophet Nathan rebuked the king for his adultery, and he was completely devastated. The reality of his imperfection was a heavy burden to bear.

The biggest lesson I have learned from David in this is not about doing the right things - about staying on the path of the law, which would have kept him out of trouble in the first place. The biggest lesson I think I am learning is how to be broken - not by the words or actions of others, but broken by choice. When, in our pride, we cling to our free will choices to sin, death and devastation will result. But coming to God broken and contrite will only lead to life and healing.

Lord, for over forty years I have held on to my rights, my ability to choose what I want. This process of changing my choices - of willingly being broken - has been horrible and wonderful. How awesome it is to know that I will not be despised when I come to You. Put the pieces back together, Father. Teach me Your ways, so I might glorify You.

The righteous will see and fear; they will laugh at him saying, "Here now is the man who did not make God his stronghold but trusted in his great wealth and grew strong by destroying others!" Psalm 52:6-7

What do others think of me?

Why do I so often ask this question? My worry about meeting everyone else's expectations has been a catalyst that drives me to perfection. Maybe if I can impress them, I will be worth something...

The fallacy with this kind of thinking is that we can never please everyone. In the end, the catalyst - the drive for perfection - becomes a cage that keeps us from true contentment. It becomes a chain that keeps us from the joy God intends.

The lesson I have struggled to learn is not so much worrying about "what" others think, but "who" is thinking it. If I seek to live a life that pleases the world, contentment is forever elusive. But concerning myself with the opinion of the righteous is a good thing. It keeps me from sin; it directs me to the Father.

Lord, when I consider my life, I am often saddened. Have I gained my strength by making You my stronghold? What would the righteous say of me? In my adolescence, I felt an insult directed at another was a good thing. For just a moment, my imperfection could be overshadowed by someone else's. Unfortunately, this practice carried over into adulthood. But we never succeed by tearing down another. You are the only source of real strength.

Be my stronghold. I long to trust in You. Let me be remembered as a man who sought to build and not destroy.

God, who is enthroned forever, will hear them and afflict them - men who never change their ways and have no fear of God. Psalm 55:19

Have you ever known someone who always seems to be afflicted with something? No matter how great things may be, he always seems to see the negative. Maybe he struggles with depression. Maybe life has dealt him a bad hand. Maybe he is simply a pessimist who likes to steal the attention - if only for a moment.

The surest way for him to remain afflicted is to merely stay where he is. Life will never seem to get better if he never moves - never attempts to change. His ways will always lead to the same dark place.

But there is hope. The affliction need not continue. God can and will meet him. God will heal him. God will bring him into the light. But it will require him to change.

Lord, I am that man who often sees the negative. No matter how much You have blessed me, I tend to get stuck in the dark. Help me to change my ways. Help me to see the hope You bring. Help me to continue on this path of freedom. I no longer want to go my way.

Help me to follow Yours.

O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water. Psalm 63:1

Gary Chapman's book, The Five Love Languages, has done a great deal for my marriage. Understanding my wife's primary love language has helped me to take steps in expressing how much she means to me. I'd like to say that I have learned to speak her language fluently, but there are times that "quality time," which happens to be her language, still seems like gibberish - in an unspoken sort of way.

In his book, Mr. Chapman provides good insight on identifying your primary language. He suggests considering which of the languages that, if it is withheld, will cause an individual to feel rejected. This advice made mine very easy to identify. Mine is "physical touch." (I know... you might say most men fall into this category, but it's not just about sex.) I can literally tell you how many times during the day that I have experienced any human contact, and when I am deprived for very long, my body literally longs for another person to acknowledge my existence in the simplest of ways. A hand on the shoulder, a light grab of the arm, and sometimes a monstrous bear hug can do wonders to meet the longing within me.

To be honest, there is a part of me that feels almost defective because of my need for physical touch. My head tells me that I should be content with connecting in spiritual ways - as if I am less mature because I cannot simply deny the longings of my body. But the truth is: God made us as physical beings. We cannot deny who we are. For some of us, our family of origin did a poor job in meeting our need for touch, and we will always seem to sink without it.

David knew what it was like to feel physical needs. In the desert he grew weary, and rather than simply wanting to connect with God on some spiritual plane, he acknowledged that his body longed for God. There is nothing wrong with physical need. God made us to enjoy our bodies and to long for the touch of another.

Lord, at times I have tried to deny the truth. I have tried to appear more "spiritual" than I should. I have a need for human touch, and unfortunately I haven't always met this need appropriately. Help me to be holy in this regard. Send those to me who might acknowledge me in loving ways. In a dry and weary land, my body longs for You.

Will You hold me today?

For you, O God, tested us; you refined us like silver. You brought us into prison and laid burdens on our backs. You let men ride over our heads; we went through fire and water, but you brought us to a place of abundance. Psalm 66:10-12

We are always thankful for God's blessing, but can we learn to thank Him for the troubles?

The emotional prisons, the heavy burden of sin, the ridicule of other men, the searing of the soul, the times when taking the next breath seems impossible... Can I be thankful for these? Can I understand how trouble has made me stronger?

The joy of abundance is so much sweeter to those who have lived in poverty. The unconditional love of God is so precious to the man who struggles to remember a time of acceptance and love.

Lord, You have brought me to a place of abundance. The famines in my life have not taken it from me; they have made me more aware of Your rich blessing. But now, what am I supposed to do with it? I feel an abundance of spirit like never before, and I don't know what to do.

So much of me wants to go back - to the prisons - to the pain - to the things I once knew. Yet I know, just as returning to Egypt was no longer an option for the Israelites, I have no other choice. Once the promised land is in sight, Your people cannot turn back. Those who refuse to move forward are destined to wander - destined to die in the desert.

Father, I don't want to wander anymore. I want to enjoy an abundant life with You. Give me clarity. Help me to see how all the pieces fit together. Give me a vision that will bring others to this place of abundance as well.

Your path led through the sea, your way through the mighty waters, though your footprints were not seen. Psalm 77:19

I just love footprints.

Every time I come across tracks in the snow or the sand, I find myself acting like a little kid - tracing them exactly. It is so much fun to walk in someone else's footsteps or try tracing my own.

Footprints are especially handy if you've ever been lost. There is nothing more frightening than realizing you've gone too far off a mountain path. All the trees start to look alike, then irrational thoughts of rescuers finding you deep in the woods days later start running through your mind. Discovering footprints that lead back to the trail is quite a relief. Footprints simply make life easier sometimes.

If only I could learn to closely follow Jesus' steps. I would never be lost again.

But what about the times I can't find His footprints? How often have I heard someone ask - heard myself ask - "Where was God when that happened?" Like the Footprints story, I sometimes wonder where God was. Was He really carrying me? Or are the footprints in the sand really mine?

Lord, I'm tired of getting lost along the path of Your will. Too many times I have strayed only to fall into dark and lonely places. Give me eyes to see Your footprints when others cannot see them. Help me to follow them. When others look at my life, let them only see the path You made for me. Like a child hopping from one to another, I want my tracks to disappear.

May every step I take be Yours.

If my people would but listen to me, if Israel would follow my ways, how quickly would I subdue their enemies and turn my hand against their foes! Psalm 81:13-14

I've heard people sometimes speak about the Old Testament as if it has nothing to do with our world today. They seem to be saying, "That is the way God was." Their only focus is on the New Testament.

What a foolish thing to believe! If I know anything for sure, it is the fact that the word "was" can never be used to describe God.

He always "IS."

There is so much to be learned from the lives of the patriarch. The Israelite journey to the promised land, their loss of it, and their eventual restoration bring hope to me. Christians are not immune to sin anymore than the Israelites were. Falling down is in our nature; we live in a fallen world. I have learned this lesson all too well. Another lesson that amazes me is how quickly God responds when we listen to Him - when we follow His ways.

Years ago, He told me that if I would follow Him, He could use me more in ten years than in a lifetime of trying to do it by myself. I listened for awhile, then I grew impatient. Taking back my destiny, I discovered that the enemy is ready to snatch us away. Here I sit, a decade later, wondering how I did it. How did I so easily turn back to the ways of the world?

Lord, come quickly to rescue me from the enemy. Restore what has been destroyed. Return what I have given away. Bring me to a new place of understanding that can bring greater glory to You that I could have imagined at the start of this journey.

I'll follow You anywhere!

Righteousness goes before him and prepares the way for his steps. Psalm 85:13

It seems sometimes that the enemy is lurking everywhere we walk. Little temptations - little attacks - await us around every corner. There are times when I am physically exhausted by the spiritual battles I must fight. And the enemy knows - the longer he attacks, the greater the likelihood I will give in.

What is a man to do?

The answer may seem plain... walk a different way. But what if that isn't an option? What then?

The psalmist gives us the clue. Send righteousness ahead! He will prepare the way.

Lord, too often I forget that I have power over the enemy. Your Spirit dwells within me. He will keep me from the enemy's snares.

Holy Spirit, prepare my way today!

Do you show your wonders to the dead? Do those who are dead rise up and praise you? Psalm 88:10

This psalm is unusual. It lacks something that is commonly found in almost all the Psalms.

It lacks hope.

How sad the writer must have been. To feel cut off - to call darkness his closest friend - to only know God's wrath... he suffered pain that few can really understand.

I understand.

For I have been in that dark place. I have felt that my friends are repulsed by me. I have experienced the pain of feeling forgotten.

Yet even now... those feelings are becoming memories. In His amazing way, God is bringing me to life.

If I could speak to this psalmist, I would say, "Yes, God shows wonders to the dead! For while I was dean in sin, He gave me life." Each new day the darkness becomes less attractive. It is merely dark. The light is where I want to be.

Lord, there was a day - not very long ago - when the words of this psalm were my own. Can it be real? Can I really be alive? You really do love me, don't You. How wonderful You are . You have raised the dead.

I long to praise You. What an awesome God You are!

Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. Psalm 90:12

Foolishness comes naturally. It takes no special training - no special preparation. It just happens. A fool learns nothing from the consequence, and his sin forever weighs him down.

Yet wisdom is learned over time. It takes practice. A wise man can do foolish things, but it is what he does afterwards that makes the difference. For a wise man remembers the consequence of his foolishness, and he understands how to avoid it.

Lord, for years I lived in regret over the foolish choices I have made in life. But it is interesting... As I learn to choose wisely, my regret seems to lessen. The man I am is the sum of all my choices - good and bad, and as I gain wisdom, I have also gained something unexpected: forgiveness - not so much from You, but from myself. Father, help me to choose wisely, and when I don't, help me to forgive, to learn, and to grow from it.

When I said, "My foot is slipping," your love, O Lord, supported me. Psalm 94:18

If I am honest about my feelings, there are times in life that I have resented God for the lessons He teaches me. Too often I wonder why He allowed me to fall down.

If He really loved me, wouldn't He protect me from it?

The truth is - I fall down because I don't ask for His help. Even so, God's love doesn't always make sense to me.

I know it is more loving to allow someone to grow than it is to keep him from it, even when it is painful. How loving is it for a parent to carry a toddler everywhere - never allowing him to walk? His growth would be stunted. He would be forever dependent on his parent and could never fully enjoy life. A loving parent stands back - watches - prays - and stays posed and ready to reach out the moment his child cries for help.

But sometimes I wish growing didn't hurt so much.

Lord, help me to ask for help. Forgive my arrogance and pride. So many times I refuse to say, "My foot is slipping!" Protect me. When I begin to slip, come to my rescue.

Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as you did at Meribah in the desert, where your fathers tested and tried me, though they had seen what I did. Psalm 95:7b-8

A friend recently described all human beings as goobers. I think I have to agree.

Sometimes, we are so stupid. God has given us so much. He proves Himself time and time again, but so often when we hear His voice, we harden our hearts.

God had shown Himself to the Israelites in the desert. He literally opened the Red Sea to save them. He sent manna from heaven to feed them. He was the daytime cloud and the nighttime fire that led them. Yet when the people grew thirsty, they abandoned their trust of Him. They longed to return to Egypt - a place of bondage and slavery.

The Israelites were goobers.

We are still goobers.

How often do we discount the work God has done in us? How many times do we abandon Him? How many times do we harden our hearts to His voice?

I am learning this trust thing is tough. Every day I am faced with the challenge of believing His will is best for me. But I try to remember, slavery on the most fertile plain without God is no match for freedom in the desert with Him. I may grow weary in the desert, but returning isn't an option. Seeking life away from God always leads to death.

Can a recovering alcoholic return to his drunkenness without causing harm? Can a recovering drug addict return to a chemical fix without the threat of death? Can a recovering sex addict return to the worship of images and compulsions without eventually destroying himself?

Returning to slavery isn't an option.

Lord, help me to trust You when I am weary. This Christian walk can be tiring, but I know You provide a place to rest - a place of refreshment and life. Help me to find that place today. Help me to not harden my heart to Your voice.

Help me to not be a goober.

My eyes will be on the faithful in the land, that they may dwell with me; he whose walk is blameless will minister to me. Psalm 101:6

Have you ever heard the saying, "If you lie down with dogs, you'll get up with fleas"? Associating with the wrong crowd has a great deal to do with who we become.

Any parent will tell you; there are certain friends you simply don't want around your children. But there's more to it than staying away from the troublemakers. It's about surrounding ourselves with others who seek righteousness. For the paths we walk alone tend to lead to the wrong destinations.

Lord, I have grown tired of the lonely paths. I have spent too much time scratching the fleas. Thank You for surrounding me with those who are seeking You. I am so blessed! Help me to keep my eyes on the faithful. Help me to honor You in all I do.

Remember the wonders he has done, his miracles, and the judgments he pronounced. Psalm 105:5

The Israelites are reminded so many times in the Bible about their history. Throughout Scripture, story after story is told of how God brought them out of Egypt, how He cared for them in the desert, and how He gave them the land that was promised to Abraham.

Even with all these reminders, His chosen people still fell away at times.

Lord, help me to no longer fall away from You. Help me to remember the works of Your hands. Through Your amazing grace, I have been rescued from the pit. The weight of the shackles forged by my sin has been lifted; I no longer carry them. But I am still afraid. Will I forget? Will I find myself lost and alone again? Continue to make me new. Let me see reminders of Your plan. Bring me into the land which has been promised. Bring glory to Your Name.

He led them by a straight way to a city where they could settle.