Encouragement . . . for the Journey 2014

Seeking the Lord . . .

Yesterday our oldest grandson went out searching for a box turtle that I had seen in our backyard earlier in the day.  He searched high and low ~ under the deck and in the natural areas around our house.  His search had a specific purpose, he knew where to look and he didn't let anything get in the way of what he wanted to accomplish.  It was cool, when later in the day, the allusive turtle was found.

How often do we purpose in our heart that we're going to seek the Lord and search for him like Jonathan looking for that turtle.  We start out strong but when the first obstacle or distraction comes, we give up.  Just what the enemy would like for us to do, I might add.  Don't give him that satisfaction. 


In Jeremiah 29:12-14, it says, "You will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.   I will be found by you," declares the LORD.


How encouraging is that!!!  God listens to each of us ~ He's never too busy; never too tired and His promise is that He will be found.  The key is to seek Him with ALL our heart ~ holding nothing back. 


Today Lord, let the hearts of those who seek You rejoice.  May each of us look to You and Your strength and seek Your face always.  (Psalm 105:3-4)  Help us to remember that without faith it is impossible to please You, because anyone who comes to You must believe that You exist and that You reward those who earnestly seek You.  (Hebrews 11:6)

Encouragement . . . for the Journey 2014

Who/what is your first love?

 "Whatever is in first place, if it isn't Christ alone, it is in the wrong place."

Beautiful reminder from Pastor Chuck Swindoll.

"But let all who take refuge in You be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread Your protection over them, that those who love Your name may rejoice in You.

For surely, O LORD, You bless the righteous; You surround them with Your favor as with a shield."Psalm 5:11-12