Your Identity in Christ
Through Christ, I am a seeker of God,
the God who blesses in Jesus' name.
Pondering Point
“I am willing,” Jesus said in yesterday’s reading from the Gospel of Matthew 8:1-4. That comment follows Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, immediately after which we find a man crying out to Jesus and asking for blessing, seeking out healing from his leprosy. It is asked and answered, sought and found, knocked out just as the man hoped would happen when he sought out Jesus. It is a simple illustration of a basic truth right on the heels of His teaching. In fact, that is what happened on both sides of Jesus' sermon in Matthew. Go see for yourself – The Sermon is Matthew chapters 5-7.
Prayer
Remember the verse from James 4:2-3: You have not because you ask not, or you ask with wrong motives. Do a gut check on motivation, then seek out your Heavenly Father in prayer: Father God, I come in the name of Jesus and ask... [share your request] In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Micro-Meditation
Psalm 119: Immersed in the Word of God
Micro-Meditation
Psalm 119:25-32 4th letter: Daleth (ד)
- I am laid low in the dust;
preserve my life according to your word. - I gave an account of my ways and you answered me;
teach me your decrees. - Cause me to understand the way of your precepts,
that I may meditate on your wonderful deeds. - My soul is weary with sorrow;
strengthen me according to your word. - Keep me from deceitful ways;
be gracious to me and teach me your law. - I have chosen the way of faithfulness;
I have set my heart on your laws. - I hold fast to your statutes, Lord;
do not let me be put to shame. - I run in the path of your commands,
for you have broadened my understanding.
Read the versus of the Psalm.
Mark the words or phrases that catch your attention.
Meditate: talk (or better, write) with God about those words. Ask him to impress things upon your heart and mind; expect responses.
Teaching or Command of God
Matthew 11:29
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
The Promise
Isaiah 41:10
Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you;
Pondering Point
Pause about something that had been wearying you; now specifically ask God to strengthen you.