One Minute with God: Yield For A Moment

Like incoming traffic zooming to get on the right lane to make its exit before being caught in a possible traffic jam or like a stampede of wilder-beast trying to cross over the river to not break stride. We, also are found at times rushing into the “rat race” of the week to get things done. The only problem is, you and I should not forget to “yield” to the possible signs ahead.

The Bible tells us of a chilling story of a man who viewed all of the potentials of a promising nation. He scaled the size of the loot, and all of the wealth dispersed throughout the land. He also took time to consider the advantages, and/or disadvantages that this new real estate brought to his disposal. But, after thoroughly weighing all his options, he found it more valuable to begin his journey with God at his side - than to have all the riches this new world had to offer.

Today, before starting off your week, why don’t you stop for a minute, or pause for a few seconds to invite God into your lane. To let him take the lead, and you gradually follow. It is better for Him to accompany your journey than for you to be found treading alone.

Exodus 33:14-17

14 The Lord replied, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” 15 Then Moses said to him, “If your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here. 16 How will anyone know that you are pleased with me and with your people unless you go with us? What else will distinguish me and your people from all the other people on the face of the earth?” 17 And the Lord said to Moses, “I will do the very thing you have asked because I am pleased with you and I know you by name.

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One Minute with God: Why Downcast

It would do well for all of us to add value to what God has already done in, and through our lives. To give thanks for the many ways He uplifted our spirits when we were going to throw in the white towel. To acknowledge the small, and also large blessings that at times He sends our way - that enables us to smile.

So many of us do not need the help of others to reside underneath our “downcast” clouds. We are experts in quickly finding a way to disqualify ourselves while forgetting all our net worth and advances. Unfortunately, you and I don’t have to look very far to find that in, and of ourselves we may at times suffer from self-degradation.

Whether it be masked by false humility, self-condemnation, victimization, or a simple self “pity-party” we must remember to intentionally shake off the emotional cobwebs, and allow ourselves to view ourselves through the loving lens of our creator. King David the Psalmist wrote in Psalms 139 “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”

So, the next time we find ourselves struggling with the temptation of sitting downcast - remember to learn how to smile, and sing along to that 1970’s classic:

“I’ve got sunshine on a cloudy day when it's cold outside I've got the month of....”:) Don’t be downcast!

Psalms 43:5

5Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior, and my God.

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One Minute with God: The Battle of the Wills

Like gladiators who are known to overpower their opponents and never surrender in battle or like a soldier who has been trained to go beyond enemy lines to establish dominance - we all are edging our way through this universe to mark our territory until we can yell our victory chant. The most powerful force in the mantra of human affairs is the human will.

Every day we wake up in the morning, we are forced to look at ourselves. We are trained to take selfies, encouraged to self reflect, are bombarded with self improved books and messages, and are even forced to self promote. Everything seems to focus on self-image these days. Contrary to sociological trends the Bible teaches us that the way to spiritual maturity is not to focus on self, but rather to become selfless. To think about the well being of others before lavishing in on our self-interest. Sometimes some of our greatest battles in life are fought not against the will of others, but rather against the will of God.

I encourage you today to stop struggling with having things your own way. But, rather humble yourself on callused knees and surrender to God’s divine plan to encompass the wellbeing of others. The Lord did say “not my will, but yours be done.”

Romans 12:1-2

1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God - this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is - his good, pleasing, and perfect will.

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