"... the seeds which fell among the thorns--these are [the people] who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked and suffocated with the anxieties and cares and riches and pleasures of life, and their fruit does not ripen (come to maturity and perfection)." ...Luke 8:14
The 'anxieties and cares' part is what I recall when Christians get all flustered and vocal (at Facebook and other places) during presidential campaigns and then go ballistic after their favorite candidate loses. Then when they complain the next four years about how the Country's being run--I also think about that verse. And sigh. A lot.
Well, it's that
Perhaps Christians won't use up their energy whining, criticizing, fearing, but will pray, instead, standing in the gap with a strong confidence that God will still be God no matter who gets elected. And that He'll still be a wonderful Father to His kids.
Perhaps they'll realize, in this case, it's a choice they're making to be miserable.
And if they're called to openly campaign? May love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, meekness, self-control not get stuffed into a dark cupboard, only to be used on a better, calmer day. No month or year, no project or desire, is worth casting away the seeds God spreads so liberally within our heartland, hoping for soil ready for new growth.
May He discover a rich, loamy soil within each of us.
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“Excellence is not a skill. It is an attitude.” ~ Ralph Marston
The older I become, the more I physically can't afford to waste energy on thinking upon things gone wrong. Now in my 50's, I must choose where my reduced energy pool will flow. And you know? That's leading me more frequently to tranquil places.
I'm liking that.
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This Gorgeous House Was Once Covered In Garbage
(This article reminded me of the verse where God says, "Behold, I make all things new.")
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Billow Creek Bride
Crafts and Hobbies: 100 days of Kindness
Fighter Pilot In the Kitchen
Wedding Crafts
Organize Your Home in Five Days
Salads and Dressings
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I totally agree. I'm even tempted to take a vacation from Facebook once the real craziness starts.
ReplyDeleteYes, I hope all people heed your wish that they behave well during this pre-election season. I hope we choose leaders that will follow what God wants them to do.
ReplyDeleteDebbie-- I know what you mean. :) I've found, though, that I can unclick a few options so I don't hear from certain friends for awhile. I usually check back a few days later on their home page to see if they're over their tantrums--and if they are--I click again on whatever so to see their posts again. :) I enjoy the good posts on Facebook and there are always many. Thank-goodness.
ReplyDeleteTerra--I guess we should probably start praying right about now not only for future leaders, but for our friends who tend to go a bit ballistic at these election times, right? :)
Thanks, Ladies! Blessings, Debra