May 24
Another Pathway to Joy
Speak, LORD, I am your servant and I am listening.
I Samuel 3:7 (NCV)
John Ortberg says, usually when people are asked when it was they grew the most spiritually, they come back with the same answer: it was when they were suffering. It happened when they were caught in the grip of circumstances or personal challenges.
Haven’t you been there too?
I still face challenges. I still have my struggles and I’m finding they can be a cause for joy (James 1:2-3) and growth. I’m also reminded of a song we used to sing. It says something like, “I’m trading all my sorrows ... for the joy of the Lord!” The Scripture and the music help me gain perspective and they encourage me to ... well ... grow.
I’m also learning that when I’m in the midst of something bigger than me, there’s a reason. And my BIG God knows that reason. And usually, He’s willing to talk to me about it, teach me, and take me through it. So, instead of bellyaching or throwing a fit, I need to settle down and open my ears.
Samuel, the little boy left by his mother Hannah to live with the priest Eli, was far beyond us when it comes to hearing God. We could take a lesson, I think. If we would stop whatever we’re caught up in, slow down and start listening, perhaps we would get a better sense of where God wants to take us, and in the process, discover another pathway to joy.
Speak Lord, for I am listening.
Another Pathway to Joy
Speak, LORD, I am your servant and I am listening.
I Samuel 3:7 (NCV)
John Ortberg says, usually when people are asked when it was they grew the most spiritually, they come back with the same answer: it was when they were suffering. It happened when they were caught in the grip of circumstances or personal challenges.
Haven’t you been there too?
I still face challenges. I still have my struggles and I’m finding they can be a cause for joy (James 1:2-3) and growth. I’m also reminded of a song we used to sing. It says something like, “I’m trading all my sorrows ... for the joy of the Lord!” The Scripture and the music help me gain perspective and they encourage me to ... well ... grow.
I’m also learning that when I’m in the midst of something bigger than me, there’s a reason. And my BIG God knows that reason. And usually, He’s willing to talk to me about it, teach me, and take me through it. So, instead of bellyaching or throwing a fit, I need to settle down and open my ears.
Samuel, the little boy left by his mother Hannah to live with the priest Eli, was far beyond us when it comes to hearing God. We could take a lesson, I think. If we would stop whatever we’re caught up in, slow down and start listening, perhaps we would get a better sense of where God wants to take us, and in the process, discover another pathway to joy.
Speak Lord, for I am listening.
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