"Staying Close to the Almighty"

This deserves a permanent post to my blog. Dr. Charles Stanley always seems to write devotionals that speak directly to me. And this one came at a poignant moment considering my emotional roller coaster ride last weekend. Working past old haunts and addressing skeletons isn't an easy task for the heart. But now is the time, and if I remember to keep my eyes and ears open, God will provide encouragement and sustenance, for example:

January 19

Staying Close to the Almighty

Isaiah 41:10-14

As children of the Most High, we are called to walk with Him whether circumstances are delightful or difficult. Both can be challenging.

In times of relative ease, we may lose sight of how dependent we are on God. Of course, we still desperately need His direction and care, but pleasant "seasons" can cloud that reality and lull us into a self-sufficient mindset. To prevent this, we should discipline ourselves to fill our minds with God's Word, pray for direction, and listen for His answer.

Strenuous times, on the other hand, can draw us to our Creator for sustenance and help. With Christ by our side, we can walk fearlessly through any situation. As Jesus warned, hardship is inevitable (John 16:33). Yet we have a choice about how to respond. We can either let painful situations trigger increased dependence upon the Lord, or we can allow doubt, depression, and anger to fill us.

The Lord promises to give all that we need to endure difficulty well. Our responsibility is to stay by His side, follow where He leads, and obey even when we don't like or understand what is happening. Our goal should align with the apostle Paul's: "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith" (2 Tim. 4:7).

Amen!