“Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you,” 1 Peter 5:6 ESV. I am well acquainted with God’s Holy Grip. When I press-in, it is gentle but powerful. In moments when I’m pulling away, or I'm straining against it, I feel His heavenly grasp tighten, His divine clench stiffening. There is no escape from the Good Shepherd’s Hand. There are those startling moments of His Hand pushing me forward or of my feet dangling over a precipice, yet still, I am held firmly as He promises: Psalm 139:10 ESV, “Even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me.” Father, I thank You for Your Mighty Handhold upon me. With Your loving touch, You uphold me, guide me, prod me, restrain me, discipline, and comfort me. I am eternally thankful; you never let go of me!
A serious pursuit of godliness requires an equally serious renunciation of worldliness. Too often, we measure spirituality with false scales. While being wisely selective with our public vices we are less so with our private attitudes and perspectives. In reality, it is the thoughts and intents of the heart where the greatest battles must be waged; our actions will ultimately align with the condition of our hearts. Lord God, You know me inside out, You are not fooled by human facades. Plow my heart with Your Word and Spirit and leave nothing unturned. Refresh my inward man that I may outwardly glorify You in all places at all times.
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