Regular Maintenance
“Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come.” 1 Timothy 4:8
If you’ve read many of my updates, you know that I often hear the Lord speak to me through His creation, and through the everyday things of life. That happened to me this week.
Floyd was always very security conscious. From the very early days of leading teams in outreach, he would carefully think through security protocols. He felt if people were placed under his care, then he wanted to do everything he could to protect them. I always loved that about him.
When we moved to where I live now, he, once again, thought through all the security issues. One important one is that we live in a fire risk area. He bought fire extinguishers to place in many rooms of the house, in our little shed, etc. These red canisters need to be serviced regularly in order to be at top form should they be needed in an emergency. I’m grateful I’ve not had to use them, but I definitely want them to be fully functional.
So, this was the week when the service man came to our house to check that they are in working order. He does some kind of “top up” to make sure they are fully ready to be used.
As I watched this process, I felt that little inner voice speaking to me. I, too, need to have checkups to make sure I’m fully ready to be used by the Lord for whatever He has in store for me. I can’t just hope that all is well. I can’t postpone checking in with the Lord to see what He is speaking to me—what lessons He wants me to learn. I can’t neglect time with Him. I can’t skip reading His Word. I can’t neglect talking to Him. I can’t neglect worshiping, praising, and thanking Him. I need the regular “servicing” of the Holy Spirit to keep me in top form in my walk with the Lord. Without adequate preparation, I won’t make it through the “fires” of life.
I love visual reminders of important spiritual lessons. The visuals stick with me, and remind me of important principles. My fire extinguishers being maintained gave me a powerful visual this week—and will continue to do so when I see them around my house!
I’m so grateful that the Lord is available 24/7 to fill us up with everything we need to face the “fires” of life. He is so faithful! Please keep praying for protection during our current “fire season.”
Father, protect Sally in every circumstance of her life. Keep her aware of dangers when she needs to be proactive in her surroundings. Thank You for watching over her and being her ever-present help. Amen.
Perfect illustration of what is most important. As I read this several days later than when posted, I realize how much I missed my ‘daily devotionals, reading, Scripture references marked, and a ‘set-aside’ quiet prayer time. Thank you for this reminder of just how important it is to have ‘visual reminders’ of the things we need to keep up with the most. God Bless You All.