Determined

[Chad]

Determined - December 13, 2005

"Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us... let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith." Hebrews 12:1-2
It was a hot, cloudless autumn morning. As I was waking up, enjoying a cup of coffee, my attention was drawn to the birdfeeder hanging outside my study. It is a plexiglas tube with a small rimmed saucer underneath, and it is "squirrel proof".

Sitting in the saucer was the most contented squirrel, munching away to his heart's content on the delicious sunflower seeds meant 'specially for cardinals.
The determined squirrel had overcome some obstacles to get from his nest high in the palm fronds to the birdfeeder. Once he'd gotten there, it was no doubt difficult to climb onto the slippery feeding tray. He'd calculated his timing so there were no birds at the feeder; he could have it all to himself without a fight.

He persevered. He was determined. He got his nourishment because he purposed to do it. Today, I must decide and purpose to get the spiritual food I desire and need to both stay alive and to grow in my faith.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for the path you have carefully carved out for me in this life. Lord, you know I get tired sometimes and I need your gift of perseverance. Please help me to hang in there. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Contributed by Sally I. Kennedy

 

[Mike]

You are right brother ! We must beat down our own ways and become slaves to Jesus Christ . His word is our food , and our prayers are our communion in the Holy Spirit . If we are doing Gods will , these operations of faith will not be easy . Our sinful nature will war against us and busy our minds with the cares of this world . Our live's are found only in Christ . Without him , we can do nothing pleasing to the Father . We must be determined as you said . Peace be unto all who are seeking Christ . Mike

 

[amberbeth04]

I am in total agreement, but with four kids it gets kind of hard, I get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life. I was doing very well there, for a while. I was getting up and praying even before I had my morning coffee lol. I need to work harder on my prayer life and make it a priority, because my relationship with Jesus is my priority. Without Him, I have nothing. I know this is awful to say, but sometimes I feel like my determination has turned into Lord where are you? Even though I know He dwells in me. The attacks of the enemy can be very powerful and overwhelming sometimes....Love in Christ, Amber.
hope i did not stray off the subject