COFFEE ON THE DOCK

Adam’s first breath came directly from the mouth of God; a pile of gathered dust turned to life. Even still, the Lord declares mastery over death, imparting life by what proceeds from His mouth. Every last corner of darkness in me will be filled with the Light of His love pursuit as His Words of Life are spoken. Oh Lord my Creator, You own every part of me. Help me breath deeply.

Disappointments are as much a part of life as breathing; reality rarely matches expectations. Dwelling on letdowns, large or small, can lead to discouragement and discontent. There is a more excellent way. Today I choose to lay hold of divine proclamation: “all things work together for good.” Lord I do love You and know that Your purpose is never thwarted by passing circumstances. It is well with my soul.

The sun is rising in a glowing eastern sky while a beautiful moon still hangs on the silvery western horizon. The Majestic One never slumbers. He speaks loudly through that which He has made. He frames my yesterday, today and tomorrow. Darkness, sunlight, transition…”O Mighty God, when I behold the wonder of nature’s beauty, wrought by words of Thine.” I proceed into this day in peace and joy.

Love is an incredible motivator. The key is learning to love the things that God loves the way God loves. His love is unselfish therefore His love is pure. My love, on the other hand, is filtered through a swamp of self-centeredness. Only a trickle of pure love makes it through to others. There is hope however since I at least can now admit it. Father, I want Your love to surge through me to those You love, Your way.

Each day, each moment is laden with God’s Presence. It is as if I were standing next to a tree filled with ripened fruit; I can simply reach out and grasp its bounty. What will God offer me today that could change someone’s life? Will I even notice? Lord, thank You for Your bountiful blessings. Help me to see and take hold of Your provision. Let me not consume without regard to others.

God wants to love others through me; I sometimes cringe at His choices. There is pain in the offering, but there is no escape. To experience His love opens our heart to the surge of His love for all. While I mostly enjoy this process, there are moments when I wish to shut off the valve after quenching my own thirst. Lord of Love, forgive me for holding back. Take my life and make it Yours.

Self-confidence is synonymous with foolishness; a house built on sand. God-confidence is a much sturdier foundation. The God enamored faces every tempest with calm assurance, knowing the Greater One is always present: behind, within, before. Lord of Glory, YOU must increase, I must decrease. I CAN do all things, but ONLY in Your strength, not my own. Deliver me from mortal pride.