Willing
“Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Matthew 26:41
As I was “resting” a few extra minutes in bed this a.m. and knowing my alarm had gone off over 15 minutes before, I thought of the sweet fellowship of the LORD I get to enjoy each morning. I had a choice, but the Lord spoke to my heart. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is indeed weak. Yes, I agreed, and got up. Often these things are a fight and I have to make a determined purpose to see the better choice and not satisfy the flesh.
The Lord does bless us with good sleep and that is His will, but time set aside for Him each morning is so important. It can define our day and help our continued choices throughout.
Growing in the Lord takes a willingness, purposing to learn and obey. 2 Peter 1:4-7 tell us to add to our faith, or practice: goodness, knowledge, self-control, endurance, godliness, brotherly affection, and love. Then verse 8 says, “For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being useless or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ” (CSB).
That says it all. I certainly don’t want to be unfruitful or useless for the Kingdom.
It takes choice and effort to set our minds on things above. In all our seemingly mundane tasks throughout the day, we know they are working out a great Kingdom purpose for His glory when we consciously acknowledge His leading and guiding. I’m reminded of Brother Lawrence in his book “The Practice of His Presence,” when he did the dishes unto the Lord. This gives an enlightening view of our lives when we do all for the glory of God. “Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all for the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31).
Thank You, Lord, for setting my day before me for Your purpose and glory. I pray to do all things unto You, in goodness and kindness of heart for others and standing in Your truth and in obedience to You. You alone are our wise God. We worship You; may our lives be a sweet fragrance. Amen.
Thank you! Needed to read this today.
This is indeed a beautiful way to start the day….reading your Devotional and then moving on to pray and thank God for you and all who are reading this. God bless you all.