2 Corinthians 4:8-9

We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. -2 Corinthians 4:8-9

Sounds pretty horrible to be "pressed on every side", "perplexed", "persecuted", and "struck down". In fact, if you just look at the life described before the "but", you would miss the point. No matter how crazy, tough, and painful things around may seem, God never allows them to completely over take us. My study Bible puts it this way "[a]ll our risks, humiliations, and trails are opportunities for Christ to demonstrate his power and presence in and through us."

So the question really is, "How many opportunities for Christ are in your life?"

Prayer of the day: Lord, help me to see the difficult and challenging situations around me as opportunities for you to work. Thank you for never letting the "world" crush me.

Philippians 4:12-13

I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength. -Philippians 4:12-13

I included both scripture verses today because I find it interesting how often verse 13 is quoted out of context.When Paul speaks of being able to do all things, he is talking about being content in all situations. Personally it is not always easy to be content. Sometimes things are NOT working out the way I want, but God made it clear that it is possible. I took a moment today to look up the definition of content. The first way it was defined was as "satisfied". The second way it was defined is "to appease the desires of"or "to limit (oneself) in requirements, desires, or actions". 

Prayer of the day: Lord, help me to learn the discipline of contentment. Thank you for knowing and caring for all my needs.

Philippians 4:11

Today at church Pastor spoke on contentment. This seems to be a reoccurring theme in my life. Through devotions, church, and study I see something that God is desperately trying to get through to me. Pastor gave a treasure trove of scriptures to help guide me in this study. For this reason I have to choose one and work my way through life of Paul.

I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.- Philippians 4:11

It was interesting to note that Pastor said contentment was a discipline that must be learned. Am I ready to learn it?

Prayer of day: (Grady) Lord, I choose to rejoice when I face difficulties, challenges and hard times. Regardless of how I feel, I will praise You and give thanks for Your goodness.

John 15:4

Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.- John 15:4

Staying connected to the Father keeps our loves from becoming simply a routine without purpose. Without this connection to Christ, we forget who we serve. We can forget why we serve. Nothing will come of the things we do in our power. Only what is fed by the Vine will get what it needs to grow and bare fruit!

Prayer of the Day: Lord, I don't want to lose my first love. Fan the flames of the Spirit in my heart and let me burn with zeal for You. (Lee Grady)