I’m on a preaching trip this week. In fact, I have been since last Friday. That’s why I’ve missed a few days. I have a lot on my plate while on this trip so, I’m only able to get one post in. But I hope if you can, you’ll come back each day to share your gratitudes, goals, and prayers in the comments to help your brothers and sisters who are on this journey with you.
Today, I’m so thankful it is hard to come up with just one or two things. I’m thankful because last night I got to witness a graduation celebration for a young Christian man whose parents I baptized 21 years ago. I even wrote the reference letter that helped them adopt this young man. Marita was his first baby sitter. That was so cool. Over the weekend, I got to participate in a camp for teenagers, many of whom are Christians, all of whom are being raised by Christians. We talked about putting to death what is earthly within you. It was a great weekend. This week, I’m getting to preach a series entitled “Toward a Theology of Marriage.” The reason I’m thankful for all this is because these have been just the reminders I need to keep me on track in my relationship with the Lord. I’m thankful because of the study I’m having to do on idolatry for a lesson assignment I’ve been given. I’m thankful for a couple of books I’ve recently read that were a punch in the gut to my complacency. I’m thankful that I serve a merciful God who didn’t crush me before receiving that punch in the gut. I’m thankful for a podcast episode that was not at all spiritual but taught me something about my role as a preacher that I had never considered. On top of all that, I’m thankful that I’m saved by the blood of the Lamb. Some days, when I get on here, I admit that I’m struggling to pick out something to be thankful for. Today, I’m so covered up with thanksgiving it isn’t even funny. Did I mention I’m breathing? I got to eat today. I have clothes to wear. And I’m saved and heading to God’s presence. I’m pretty much one of the most blessed people on earth. Praise the Lord.
My goal today is to stay on the journey. To praise the Lord. To give thanks continually. My goal is to remember where I am heading. I want to remember that my temptations are not about rules and regulations, but are demonic enemies trying to keep me from the goal God has for me. “Get behind me, Satan.” That’s my goal today.
Almighty God, Father in Heaven, Savior of mankind, Lord of Heaven and Earth: Thank You. Thank You for being my God and letting me be Your people. Thank You for welcoming into Your narrow way. Thank You for holding my hand. Thank You for bringing people, books, podcasts, situations, sermons, classes into my life that direct me back to You. Thank You for not letting go of me even when I’ve started loosening my grip. Strengthen me to hang on to Your hand. I’m all Yours today; do with me as You will.
Please, in order to encourage your fellow travelers, share your gratitudes, goals, and prayers in the comments section below.
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