Seeking His Heart
I don’t know why it’s always so hard to believe another year has flown by. I think back to favorite verses that drew me closer to the Lord this year. Probably my top verse two years ago was—
Be still and know that I am God. Psalm 46:10
This year’s verse, considering all the issues with my mother, would have to be—
We walk by faith and not by sight. II Corinthians 5:7
One of my life verses that continues to challenge me is—
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. Proverbs 3;5
When I doubt my worthiness to even enter God’s presence, I remember Jesus’ words and the price He paid for me.
“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:6
Last year, I received a tea-cup (I’m not a coffee drinker, so it’s a tea for me) which says—
“The Lord is my strength and song.” Psalm 118:14
It’s a beautiful, dainty cup. As I sip my tea, I think about how He helps me not only make it through the day (my strength), but also gives me joy (my song!)
The joy of the Lord is your strength. Nehemiah 8:10
I have struggled to find the joy the last two months, though. Care of my mother has increased and has left me “spent” many days. What a blessing when He gave me this verse on one such day—
He makes all things beautiful in his time. Ecclesiastes 3:11
and… I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13
All roads seem to lead back to that first verse about being still.
Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on Thee. Isaiah 26:3
These are only some of the verses on the back of my door that holds the “tea towel verses.” We can certainly agree with the psalmist—
Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. Psalm 119:105
Last Sunday, our pastor led a convincing service about setting goals for the new year, seeking God’s will, and taking small steps to make a big difference. He concluded the service by reading John 12:26 which encourages us to follow Jesus. But the phrase that popped out for me was, “my servants must be where I am.”
“Anyone who wants to be my disciple must follow me, because my servants must be where I am. And the Father will honor anyone who serves me.” John 12:26 (NLT)
What a worthy way to begin our new year by focusing on where God is at work in our lives and having the determination to be there with Him, joining in.
~ Joyce ~
Happy New Year, Joyce!
I really connected with your blog today especially John 12:26…to be working and serving where Jesus is..to be part of a work where Jesus is working and blessing. I’m praying that God will lead me to such a place, perhaps it’s to be more active in my local church.
God will give you strength and bless you for caring for your mother; it’s part of the honor due to our parents even though it’s difficult at times. “Honor thy father and mother that your days may be long on the earth.”
Thanks for your daily encouragements! Hope to see you some day at the Y!
Thank you, Martha, for your encouraging words about caring for my mother. I’m glad the blog is meeting needs for you. I was finally back to the pool this week. Felt good.
What great scriptural reminders! Thank you.
Happy New Year to you and Jim.
We always learn new things for well-worn Scripture passages, don’t we, Carolyn. Blessings on your new year as well.
Thank you, Joyce, for those verses. If you feel overwhelmed, I (and probably we) give you permission to discontinue this blog for a short time….unless, of course, you find comfort and “therapy” in writing this.
Thank you, Connie for your care and concern. Yes, the blog is time consuming and yes, it is therapeutic in a way.