This morning, I read about how God always takes care of His own people. Do we really comprehend that and believe it? He will never, ever cease to love you. And that love is not an intangible concept but will be seen time after time (because He is 100% faithful) in His provision for us.
As I started my prayer time this morning, I contemplated starting the use of a prayer journal. I have one that I bought as part of Mark Batterson’s The Circle Maker book, which I am reading in concert with this 21 days of prayer and fasting that Vineyard North Church begins today. I went to Bible college with Mark and have read some of his other books, which are short but powerful.
The Lord brought a scripture to mind after my prayer time. It is “Teach us to number our days that we may apply our hearts to wisdom” (Psalm 90:12). I thought about what this means. Often when a person lives through a crisis, such as a near-death experience, they re-evaluate their life and come up with new priorities. Realizing that life is short and that we are not guaranteed to live even one more day makes a person want to make the most of the time they have. Reconnecting with people or actively pursuing items on a “bucket list” is not uncommon after such an experience. For the believer, realizing how little time we have should be a catalyst to spiritual maturity, “putting away childish things,” (I Cor 13:11) and diligently seeking the wisdom that comes from above. James 3:17 says that this wisdom is “first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and the fruit of good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere” (NLT).
After thinking about and praying for these things, I started my morning by checking email. I read the daily devotional from In Touch Ministries, in which the value of keeping a prayer journal was discussed as well as praying for wisdom! So, my marching orders for the next 21 days (at least!) were received. Sometimes God emphasizes things in exceptional ways. How often do you read about keeping a prayer journal? Twice in one morning? Message received.
Today, this week, and going forward, be encouraged to listen to that still, small Voice which speaks to your heart. Seek the wisdom that comes from God.