COFFEE ON THE DOCK

When I take an honest look at the distracted unreadiness of my soul I realize why God’s blessings so often delay. It is the goodness of God to withhold divine action until I am properly postured to receive. The reliable discipline of the Great Shepherd prepares me for still waters. I am not ready when I want to be ready; I’m ready when He says I’m ready. Father, I get turned around, but You lead me in the way. In all my straying You guide me back to You.

My times of prayer are mostly done in quiet solitude, but internal impulses often make my meditations feel like Times Square on New Year’s Eve. Random thoughts, daily concerns, carping accusations from the evil one and incessant problem solving noisily crowd into holy space carved out for God alone. Like highway road signs for the lost traveler, the Holy One hangs patiently overhead, quietly instructing and directing me to the intended destination. Lord of Peace, only You can do the miraculous and quiet my soul. You silence my doubts and calm my inner storm as You lead me in the way everlasting.  

The table is set for a new day. Only God knows exactly what is prepared to be set before me. I must now leave behind simple-minded ways and ready myself for new insight, higher life and greater things. Am I up for what today will bring? Only the day will tell, but the One who provides it will also carry me through it. This day I will walk on sacred steps, the Alpha and Omega has already trod this moment in advance. Lord, today is the day You have made; I am good with that and already rejoicing. Lift me in Your arms and carry me through.

The hardening of the heart is a slow process. It may begin as a particularly prized opinion or commitment to a specific course of action; even procrastination is a path to hardness. We harden our hearts by rebellion against needed disciplines, through bitterness over circumstances or by unbridled selfishness. Comparing ourselves to others is a common path to callousness. As the hardening continues excuses are made, all contrary opinions are cast aside and no authority is trusted. In the end it becomes resistance to truth itself. Father, grant me a pliable heart. May nothing I think or do be held so dear that truth may no longer penetrate.

To openly live a life of faith is not a proclamation of personal perfection. In fact, the opposite is true. My imperfections become the stage upon which the amazing grace and relentless love of God are displayed. In my weakness, His awesome strength is discovered and brought to the forefront. Glossing over our foibles in an attempt to present a false image of the believer’s life does more harm than good. Lord, You are my Fortress and Deliverer, reveal Yourself in me. May my failings spotlight Your exquisiteness. May my need for constant redemption encourage others to seek the same. 

The end of our known resources is the starting line for miracles. Until our energy is fully exhausted there is no second wind. Only when we are firmly trapped do we do whatever is necessary for freedom. To the hungry soul everything is sweet. These are but a few reminders that at the borderline of human-centered effort there is God. He is never without resource, never exhausted, always liberating, full of provision. When I consider the greatness of His power it begs the question: why do I ever attempt to go it alone? O Lord of Limitless Good, the one who trusts in You will never be put to shame.