COFFEE ON THE DOCK

Like sunshine breaking forth on a gloomy day, the Word of the LORD brings unquenchable joy to a sad heart. Just one syllable from the lips of the Almighty sends the hordes of hell scampering for cover. Truth not only delivers us from evil, it destroys the foundation upon which deception is assembled. For these reasons and innumerable more, drinking from the Fountain of Life is not an option; it is vital to our spiritual lives. Framing our thoughts, words and deeds by Scripture provides both safety and power. LORD of Truth and Light, may Your Word fall down like summer rain upon the dryness of my heart and fill me to overflowing. 

I get rattled, but rarely shaken. Reaction turns to recovery quickly as I remember the words of the psalmist: “God is my refuge and strength, a very present help in times of trouble.” Not just present, He is “very present”, not just somewhere near, but “very present”. The LORD is present with Wisdom in the maze of confusion, our Strength when we are weak, our Peace in the midst of storms and our exceedingly Great Reward in the midst of and at the finish of every trial. Ever Present LORD of All, take my life and let it be for Your glory. Leave nothing untouched. Leave nothing unchanged. Leave nothing unfinished. 

It is a common malady to confuse exercising biblically granted divine authority with being an authority on the divine, confidently condemning those who differ in their beliefs or practices. From there, it is a slippery slope that drops us into the pit of judgmentalism. Discernment has great value, but we can easily slip into unfair conclusions and declarative pronouncements that are careless and hurtful rather than helpful. Lord, help me to discern in a highborn manner. Teach me to think and speak things bathed in Your love. Protect me from the earthly habit of categorizing those different than me. 

The difference between heroes and fools is clear. When others are running from danger, heroes such as first responders, those who have been fully prepared for these moments, follow their calling and rush in. Heroes rush in and make a difference! Fools, on the other hand, rush blindly toward things that elicit thrill, only to be destroyed by their pursuits. Fools rush in and make a mess! The pursuit of Kingdom purpose must be done heroically, not foolishly. We must take seriously the discipleship and training God prepares us with to do His Will. Lord, Your daily discipline is my greatest ally. Prepare me today for Your highest and best. 

Every person struggles with a yearning for validation; we each need to know our life matters. Yet, in the end, recognition, popularity, accomplishment and adoration can never satisfy our deepest longings, only faith can validate our existence. We are created to live in right relationship with our Heavenly Father. Trust in God as Creator, Redeemer and Sovereign aligns us with our divine purpose and is essential to lasting assurance; it is the validation we inwardly seek. Gracious Father, forgive my failed attempts at self-validation. Willing obedience to You authenticates my sonship and assures my place among Your people. 

King Saul’s bitterness ultimately destroyed him. Many people seem to delight in sowing discord. Like wounded animals, their own pain gives impulse to attacking others randomly; the slightest inconvenience, misunderstanding or disagreement detonating rage. Hatred attempts to establish permanent residence in the hearts of God's children, but He will have none of that. The heart surrendered to the Lover of Our Souls is more than a match for bitter indignation. Gracious Father, expunge all lingering vitriol within me. Rip away every root of bitterness and fill my heart with Your unquenchable love and mercy. 

A life deeply marked by God has the same characteristics as our Savior’s; He never considered anyone too low for His kindness and attention. If fact, He was often criticized for associating with those others considered unworthy or unclean. However, He did not choose fools as His companions. There is a huge difference between friendliness and friendship. Our committed friendships must be chosen carefully, we do not want to be led astray into unfaithfulness. Lord, help me keep Your Will and Ways in the center of every relationship. Safeguard my heart with discretion and guard my steps with wisdom.