I remember, as a young Christian, waking to God’s presence. There was no such thing as driving alone in the car. It seemed only natural to talk with Him. Indeed conversing with Him, prayer as we call it, is the simplest way I know of “practicing His presence.” I have to remind myself that prayer is not only talking, but listening.
“In Him we live and move and have our being.” Acts 17.28 Conversations Within” ts 8/7/
There are things that only God can do for us, just as there are things that we can only do for ourselves. Both express the need for God’s grace. I require more than resolve to experience my needed transformation. I need grace, pure and simple. I need grace to know that I need grace.
“But by the grace of God I am what I am.” 2Cor.15 Conversations Within” ts 8/7/
I can expect stressful days. The question is what will I do to deal with them? I have discovered that the best way to deal with stress is to deal with me. The moment I sense the absence of inner peace, I can use that very realization to do what is needed to return to it. Just take a breath and remember. Jesus is waiting patiently for me where I stepped off the path of peace.
“Let the peace of Christ rule in your
Jesus made it clear that we can sin in our heart even if we do not actually commit the physical act. The point He is making is that God wants our heart, not just an empty compliance to a set of rules. Even our most intimate contemplation's are known to God. If God has our heart, He has everything.
“...but let your heart keep my commandments…” Prov.3
When I walk in the light of God’s wisdom, my day is filled with joy and peace. When I stray from His counsel, I have neither. There are no shortcuts to a life blessed by God's wisdom. Take hold of her and she will take hold of you.
“She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her; those who hold her fast will be blessed.” Prov.3 Conversations Within” ts 8/4/
