Growing My Faith

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Growing My Faith Part 17 - Gray Skies

by Gail Rodgers
Susie called today. She was feeling “down” and couldn’t seem to shake it. The holidays are over, her New Year’s resolutions are sliding and, where she lives, it is cold! There is a lot she needs to do yet she feels unmotivated. Many share Susie’s mood… .

God cares about the days when procrastination reigns in our lives and we feel like we are in a rut. He addresses it quite specifically in Ephesians 5: 15 – 21. Listen to what God says as He details just how to make the most of every opportunity. He tells us where to get the strength so we can pull out of that rut.

“Be very careful then how you live, not as unwise but as wise… “

prayer & reflection

Father God, help me to pay attention to what I am doing with my time. Help me to be wise, not lazy or downhearted, about the things I need to do.
“... making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.”
Remind me that my time on this earth is precious. Help me not to waste it. Keep me mindful that a spiritual battle goes on around me and I can not afford to be spiritually lethargic.
“Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.”
Keep me from the thief of procrastination. Let Your will be done in my life. Help me to choose to live prayerfully, thankfully and joyfully on purpose.
“Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.”
Guard me from making choices that would fill my body and mind with the wrong things. Fill my inner spirit with Your Holy Spirit, the Source of all I need.
“Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs.”
Help me to intentionally speak encouraging words to at least one person today.
“Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything… “
Pour praise into my soul and let it overflow in my heart. I choose to keep a thankful outlook on all of life.
“... in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Even when I don’t feel like it I know You will empower me as I choose to do this.
“Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.”
Help me to have an attitude that works toward compatibility in my relationships today.
I commit to live this way today because I love You, Lord.
Amen