David stood before Goliath. He spoke the words, “I come to you in the name of the Lord…” As we journey we meet giant obstacles that appear in the path before us. They frighten us and we wish they weren’t there. But faith gave him strength to meet Goliath and overcome. Faith will also give us what we need to meet the challenges and overcome them. Let us ask God to help us find the courage and strength for what we need toady, this day.
Our church does many kind deeds and acts of love. We do this for others as a reminder of God’s love for us. Paul remarked how we see through a glass dimly. As we journey in life, we won’t understand everything including God’s ways. But this we do know, God will never forsake us or leave us comfortless. God’s love is sure, this we can know in our hearts when our head wonders.
How horrified the church leaders must have felt to have Jesus tell them that the dregs of society would enter the kingdom first. Jesus didn’t ask followers to become saints, only to believe in him. This is the good news, no matter what our situation, in Christ we can enter into the deepest relationship with God.
We aren’t always in control of life. Yet as a Christian we should know that life can still be good. Life can be worth living even when we are barely making it. God has promised love at all times. We learn to be patient even in long suffering because of God. We can be perplexed about life but not despairing if we really believe what Jesus says about God’s love and his.
Many are familiar with the phrase, “a heavy heart”. It can be a physical reality today. When we sense this mood, we need to know that it is normal and we are normal. We also need to know that it will pass. We can try to determine what is causing the heaviness of heart but we may not find the answer. Rather than be tormented, we should be reassured. God has not given us this feeling, God wishes us to have a blessed life in communion with Christ. Not matter what your heart condition ask God with whatever shred of faith you have and God will provide.
Gratitude is good for you. Studies show those who are thankful have more social connections, are happier, sleep better and exercise more. So, thank those around you and you may find a new pep in your step.
Source: Wall Street Journal, “Thank You. No, Thank You”; online. wsj.com/public/page/news-health-industry.html
A new study shows it’s not only the social aspect of church or only spirituality that increases happiness, but the combination of the two. Church goers are happier when they become friends with fellow church goers who also have a strong religious identity.
“It is neither faith nor communities, per se, that are important, but communities of faith,” the report states. “For life satisfaction, praying together seems to be better than either bowling together or praying alone.”
Source: American Sociological Review, “Religion, Social Networks, and Life Satisfaction,” December 2010
