COFFEE ON THE DOCK

Nothing of this world can add value to my soul; only God can make that happen. While emotions may be stirred, even temporarily lifted by new things or experiences, soon the exhilarated feelings drift away and we are left in the same sad condition as before. The person who constantly pursues something to make them happy will never find enduring joy. The strength giving, life lifting, heart filling “Joy of the Lord” may only be found in a vital relationship with our Maker and a realignment of our priorities to His. My Lord and King, You are the Fountain of eternal blessing! Take my whole heart, I am Yours.

Walking is merely a series of steps. Each stride distances me from something behind and propels me toward what is ahead. Giant ones, tiny ones, fast ones, slow ones, intense ones, easy ones; each step counts since no matter the size, progress is made. The walk of faith is no different. Every act of faith, whatever its size, draws us deeper into holy space where everything is possible. Lord, keep my steps firmly centered in Your will. If I should stumble, still I am safe, knowing I remain in Your capable hands. Teach me to walk boldly in the midst of the miraculous as You guide my steps. 

The soul must have a continual flow of fresh insight from God; we are not designed to go it alone. Spending too much time circling in our own thoughts leaves us confused and frustrated, yet, a moment of revelation brings clarity and direction. Each new day demands dipping our cup deeply into the well of God’s life-lifting Word, laying bare our heart before Him and praising the Lover of our Soul without regard to circumstances. Blessed God and Father, Your Love and Light bring Joy and Peace to my heart. Instruct my ways this new day with fresh insight. Grant me grace that I may hear accurately and obey swiftly. 

Increased knowledge does not guarantee good judgment. Life is very complicated and unpredictable. Like sand bars in a fast running inlet, the ground underneath us constantly shifts, yet dangers just under the surface are not easily seen until it is too late. Skillful living requires nonstop contact with the Giver of Life. Knowing God and receiving His wisdom and guidance increases good judgment and safety as we face the unknown. All-Knowing Father of Wisdom and Truth, deliver me from deeply imbedded folly in my heart. Grant me understanding and a clean heart bathed in light. 

Things in life must be replenished. Clothes must be washed, pets must be fed again and again, homes must be repaired; so why do we think we must be filled with God’s Spirit or surrender to His Sovereignty only once? Many seem surprised to learn that daily replenishing is necessary for the people of God. Like manna in the desert, yesterday’s blessings perish quickly. Today I must again dig deep, remind my heart of God’s faithfulness and recommit to His will and ways. Lord Almighty, I renew my vows to You. Fill me afresh with Your Presence. I again put my hand to the plow and resolve to finish my course with fervor.

What size is required for something to catch God’s attention? Consider that the Almighty designs beautifully intricate designs into every single snowflake. He frames the universe, yet does so with atoms, each of which is composed of various subatomic particles that are themselves composed of even smaller particles. It is safe to say there is nothing too small for His consideration. Many believe a problem requires a certain size for God to intervene, but creation itself teaches us differently. Lord of All Creation, forgive me for not submitting even the smallest of things to you. You are Father and King of my inmost being. 

God cannot be manipulated by my obedience; no amount of clever posturing succeeds in reshaping His will or ways. The Almighty sees right through every attempt I make to take control of circumstances that He alone must govern. Doing the will of God must be an act of love and abandon, not a contrived form of leverage. Self-dependence is not only unnecessary; it is renunciation of His Grace and Lordship. It is the humble acceptance of His Sovereign Authority that invites unrestricted blessing. Father, cleanse my soul of every smidgen of poisonous pride and feigned innocence.