Hello Friends,

Today is the beginning of the rest of your life.  We have all heard this statement and for most of us we simply chuckle, nod, and go on about our business.  But if we pause for just a moment, we can see such hope, joy, and promise in this statement.  Regardless of what happened yesterday, the week before, the month before, the years before, or even moments before, every moment we live in the present is an opportunity to be more for the Lord, do more for the Lord, and be more of what He wants us to be.

So, in this moment, I want to be present.  I want to seek the Lord’s guidance for just how I am to spend my time, my energy, and my effort.  I must believe it is called the present because it is something we can unwrap, enjoy, and use it to make the best of our lives and our purpose.  With that thought in mind, what can I do differently today that would get me closer to the Lord?  What can I practice in my day-to-day activities that would enable me to become more of what He would want me to be?  Perhaps the answer to both questions is the same.  I believe the answer is to spend time with Jesus.

How do we spend time with Jesus?  We read His Word.  In John 1:14 we are told that the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us.  We spend time in prayer, not just saying words but also listening.  Praying with a purpose, with intensity, and intentionally.  This combination of prayer and Bible study allows us to spend time with Jesus which in turn enables us to get to know Him better and to have a better understanding of who He is and what He expects of us.  Time with Jesus changes things and it changes me.

As I think of my day ahead of me, I want to be conscious of the fact that I need Jesus in every aspect of it.  I need to yield to the guidance of the Holy Spirit and to be obedient to God’s voice in my life.  I must seek Him not just in the morning or perhaps at night, but in all things, all circumstances and in all facets of my life.  I must pray without ceasing.  I must have an attitude of prayer, a heart full of God’s love, and a purpose for my life that is centered around the will of God and His ways.  So, Lord, I am asking you to speak specifically to each of us today.  Teach us turn to you first, frequently, and always.  Help us to listen.  Lord speak!

In His Service,

Kim