Daily Devotional September 8, 2020
Yesterday, for Labor Day, I labored. I spent the entire day welding up a pipe fence. It is one of those projects that I can only get to in my spare time, which means it is taking forever to complete. At this rate, I expect Jesus to return before I am finished. Actually, I’m hoping that happens. The sooner Jesus comes, the better life will be.
Patience is not a virtue I possess which makes installing this monstrous fence a problem. The day I started this project was the day I wanted it completed. It didn’t work out that way. But what I know for sure is someday, I will look at the fence and say it was worth every second of effort. The same can be said for my walk with God.
Becoming a mature Christian takes time. It is not something that happens in the blink of an eye. It’s a process. For some, this process is very frustrating and instead of truly growing in the faith, they remain infants because they don’t want to put in the effort. This is where sweat equity comes in.
Prayer, reading scripture, corporate worship, tithing, and working to lighten the heavy load others carry, is all part of the maturing process. And while there may be times when these steps are inconvenient, they are necessary.
The good news is that someday, you will look your relationship with the One who gives peace, strength, guidance, and grace, and say it was worth every second of effort.
So if you feel stuck, frustrated, confused, off course, weak, impatient, depressed, alone, empty, or afraid, the answer begins and ends with enriching and growing in your relationship with the One who loves you more than life itself.
This is why Peter concludes his letter by saying: “Instead, grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ. To him belongs glory now and forever. Amen.” (2 Peter 3:18)
Make the commitment to do whatever it takes to deepen your relationship with God. Carve out the time from your busy schedule. I promise it will be worth it.
Prayer: Dear Gracious Heavenly God, help me grow closer to you. Let me feel your presence, guidance, and comfort. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
God sees you as a child of infinite worth. God wants you to know Him. Putting in the effort to know God will enrich your life in ways you cannot begin to imagine. Give it a try. You will be glad you did.
Also, if you are in need of an exercise to increase your patience, I know a pipe fence that has a long way to go.
I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins
Daily Devotionals by Dr. Tom Robbins 