COFFEE ON THE DOCK

The human mind is governed by earthly needs, desires and fears and is hostile to trusting in the unseen. The concept of a Sovereign, Caring and Attentive Shepherd of our souls is appealing, but our minds must be trained to live under a new order of life, giving first place to the Lordship and Authority of God. Understanding the true situation is a critical first step; He is Lord, I am NOT. Each day must begin with an early morning briefing with the Supreme Commander-in-Chief. Lord of All, I submit this day to Your plans and cast my concerns before You. Lead me to the Rock that is higher than I.     

Betrayal and treachery hurt the people targeted by them, but in fact, even greater harm is done to those who perpetrate such hatred. To attempt to seize control of others through lies or disinformation is an attempt to position one’s self as the sole proprietor of truth. Those who engage in these things often believe they are doing God’s bidding, but sadly, these behaviors are contrary to His ways and are a denial of His Lordship. Father, keep me bound to Your truth alone and grant me grace to conduct myself accordingly. Root out all malice or ill will toward others from my soul. 

God could never be impressed by my most ardent efforts since it is only with His unending help that I achieve even the slightest thing. Yet, like an adoring father holding his infant son, He treats me as if each simple thing I do is unique and truly special. His unconditional fatherly delight inflames my deepest desire to please Him. His Goodness leads me to repentance and obedience. Dearest Father, You hear my slightest sighs and are patient with my blood-curdling cries and I am equally blessed by Your Voice of Discipline and Your Comforting Hand. You are my Great Salvation. 

Some relationships are as welcome as a toothache, yet a painful tooth is itself a vital message that something is wrong and needs immediate attention. Unseen cracks, hidden decay, gum disease or root fractures are all reasons for pain and all reasons to get help. It occurs to me that God uses people to expose my cracks, decay, fractures and root issues. While I like neither the diagnosis nor the healing procedures, I am genuinely thankful for the necessary fixes. Father, thank You for sending people into my life to uncover my need for Your help and healing. 

On a camping trip, the night’s roaring fire becomes the next morning’s bed of coals. Lack of attention will eventually extinguish its potential for revival. Like a fire, love must be fed. If not regularly fueled, passion will eventually grow cold. Sadly, a heart cools so gradually that it is not easily recognized until it is nearly frigid. Life devoid of affection, life with no eagerness, life with no passionate mission is no life at all. Lord of Love, fill my heart with passion for You and help me love others purely. Blow upon the coldest embers within my heart and set me ablaze for Your will and ways. 

Sunset, midnight, daybreak, high noon, the steady Hand of God turns the earth and all its inhabitants through another day. His grip is sturdy, forceful, capable and secure; my life is firmly in His Holy Grasp. As Master Artisan of the universe, nothing is missed, not one prayer unheard and not one cry for mercy ignored as He rotates His object of love in His Blessed Hand. Lord God, Father and Creator, You behold my distracted unreadiness, yet in Your Blazing Lovingkindness You do not turn away in disgust, instead, healing my woundedness You bring me through every trial. 

Life is replete with letdowns. Some are truly consequential but most are petty. The problem is the small ones often stick together, mushrooming into something truly ominous. If not diminished, discouragement will set in with full-on depression soon to follow. Learning to cast our disappointments into the sea of God’s love is vital to spiritual advance. Each new day offers fresh opportunities to cast our cares upon the One who truly cares for us. Father, may Your unfailing love be my delivering comfort. Fill my heart with Your joy and teach me to console others with the same care I have received.