COFFEE ON THE DOCK

“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him,” James 1:12 ESV. Over a lifetime, I have been blessed with great opportunities that I did not deserve but were granted by God's grace. I’ve earned a few titles and received a few awards. Most of them now live stacked in drawers and closets or only have real value as a part of a story that comes up from time to time. In the end, they have no eternal value. One of my spiritual fathers, Dr. Costa Deir, would often say: “A great life can be summed up in one word: OTHERS.” This leads to the question of life that really matters, “have I made it my aim to encourage, lift and bless others?” Father, the only prize I now seek is to remain faithful to You by helping, strengthening, and lifting others. May my hands not be found empty when I join the gathering before Your throne in heaven, and we joyfully cast our crowns at ...

“O Lord, you have searched me and known me! You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar,” Psalm 139:1-2 ESV. While my private contemplations may be hidden from others, all my thoughts, wishes, fears, motives, and aspirations are in full view of the LORD. He examines all my paths, not only those I have already taken but even those I merely consider. This would be a moment-by-moment battle of wills if I were still under the impression that my life was my own, but this issue is settled; I must decrease, He must increase. Though I sometimes forget to acknowledge His ever-present examinations, He never loses track of me, not even for the smallest measurement of time. This is sometimes disconcerting, but even my consternation is a sign of His “Wonderous Meddling.” Glorious Father, it is true, I am Yours. Have Your way in me in every way and at all times.

“Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit,” Proverbs 18:21 ESV. Expressing feelings and opinions comes fairly easily for me, but speaking without necessary restraints is never good. Frankly, I have both wounded and healed with my words. Though I genuinely attempt to use care in what I say, far too often, the wrong things slip right out. The phrase “I really shouldn’t say this,” followed by saying whatever we shouldn’t anyway, is foolish and hurtful. Words guided by wisdom and bathed in love should be the constant way of the child of God. To withhold wisdom can rob someone of a blessing, but just saying whatever comes to mind is dangerous for both the speaker and hearer. Father, cleanse my lips, help me speak only what is filtered through love. Purify my heart that my mouth will be a fountain of blessing. 

“Walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God,” Ephesians 5:2 ESV.  Tidal waters can be tricky for boaters, I have run aground a few times thinking I had sufficient draft. Surface appearances can be very deceiving, covering over serious dangers underneath and giving the appearance of depth and safety. Yet hidden below there may be something that could destroy your journey forward. In a similar manner, shallow love is also very perilous; love must run deep. Every attitude that is contrary to true love for God and our fellow man must be exposed and replaced with God’s awesome love. Commingling of motives must cease. Father, teach me to love authentically, faithfully, consistently, and tenderly. Let Your love flow through me without restriction.

“You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you,” Isaiah 26:3 ESV. My best times of prayer are mostly done in quiet solitude, early in the morning. Quiet Time is the perfect remedy for the overstimulated soul. However, though it may be silent around me, my internal impulses often make my meditations feel like rush hour on the I-95 Corridor. Random thoughts, daily concerns, carping accusations from the evil one and incessant problem solving noisily crowd into holy space carved out for God alone. Like highway road signs for the lost traveler, the Holy One hangs patiently overhead, quietly instructing and directing me to the intended destination. The Word stored in my heart, enlightened by Holy Spirit, guides me to wonderful places I could never find on my own. Glorious God, only You can quiet my soul. Silence my thoughts and calm my inner storm. You are my peace. I await Your voice and instructions.   

“This is the day that the LORD has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it!” Psalm 118:24 ESV. The table is set for a brand-new day. Only God knows exactly what is already prepared for my arrival in it. I must now leave behind days gone by and ready myself for new insight, a higher life, and greater things. Am I up for what today will bring? Only the day will tell, but the One who provides it will also carry me through it. One thing is sure; I will walk upon on sacred footprints since the Alpha and Omega has already trod this moment in advance, sprinkling blessings and divine opportunities throughout. I must pay attention so I don’t miss a thing He has placed along the path. Lord God, Lover of My Soul, today is the day You have made; I am so good with that and already rejoicing in what is to unfold. Lift me in Your arms and carry me through with faith, joy, and purpose. 

“Your testimonies are wonderful therefore my soul keeps them. The unfolding of your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple,” Psalm 119:129-130 ESV. Following God’s commands can be difficult, but the rewards they impart make the sacrifices of obedience seem small. After all, outstanding advice laden with generous dividends is pretty easy to follow. Too often, we construe a false narrative in our minds about the cost of obedience to God’s Word when in reality, the actual cost of disobedience is far greater. I love David’s description of the LORD’s “testimonies” as “wonderful,” for wonderful they are! Like the unexpected discovery of hidden treasures, the unfolding of truth in our lives brings many unforeseen blessings. Heavenly Father, open Your Word to my heart and soul afresh this new day. Grant me a willing spirit that I may obediently follow Your ways.