In a world that is caustic, calamitous, complex, catastrophic, and filled with chaos, crime, and confusion, navigating life can take its toll. Even the simple things that start our day off on the “wrong foot” can set the tone that gives the devil a foothold in our lives.
I thought of that this morning as I started the Keurig-with no cup underneath to catch the coffee. Life. It’s busy. Demanding. Challenging. And ever-changing. In those moments God quietly speaks to my heart and tells me I need to:
Stop.
Pause.
Breathe.
And re-focus on Him.
“But he who did not know, yet committed things deserving of stripes, shall be beaten with few. For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required; and to whom much has been committed, of him they will ask the more.” Luke 12:48 New King James Version.
Making God a Priority
Growing up, we never missed church. My Dad was the Pastor and I think we would have been required to go even if we had an outbreak of Typhoid Fever. I “get it” now. There’s something about God molding our lives and life’s experiences that draws us closer to Him and brings to mind the things we were taught as kids.
To break it down in modern day vernacular, paraphrased, it’s what Uncle Ben said to Peter Parker in Spider-Man, “With great power comes great responsibility.” The verse in Luke isn’t just addressing wealth but all of the things we have been blessed with at the goodness of God’s hand. It’s our talents, gifts, our thoughts, our service to Him.
When Jesus died on the cross, for our sins, He made the ultimate Sacrifice and because of Who He is, we have been given much. Think about it. Not only did the Son of God die for us but He also gave us the free gift of salvation and eternal life, if we believe in His Son, Jesus, and His finished work on the cross.
“‘…You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment.’”
Matthew 22:37-38 NKJV
Casual Christianity
For some, the religion of today seems to be “casual”. We’re casual in our behavior, casual in our view of God, and casual in our approach to Christianity. Often times it seems we “tip our hat” at God while going about our everyday lives. That is, until we hit that bump in the road where the doctors offer no hope, the job is gone, and the family is fragmented. Then, our “casual” turns quickly into “committed.”
Oh, how He wants to be included in our decision making and in our daily walk. Furthermore, He wants our hearts, our minds, our focus, and our dedication to Him. I’ve learned over the years that Jesus cares about each detail of our lives. We owe Him everything-all we have. He is worthy of our praise.
When the following verse resonates within our hearts, it will change “casual” to “committed.”
For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes.” Romans 1:16 (NKJV)
Giving God the Crumbs
Saturday nights were a “fav” growing up. Mama always made hamburgers. If we studied our Sunday School lesson, took our baths and got ready for bed, we could have a Coke with our supper, while watching Perry Mason. Back then, that was the “ultimate!” Of course, I was always pushing the limits and wanted to stay up as late as possible. But to this day I can still hear my Mom’s voice from decades ago saying, “Go to bed. We are not giving God the crumbs”. The Crumbs? Yes. The fragments of our day, the least of our lives, and less than our best.
“And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men.” Colossians 3:23 (NKJV)
“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” Matthew 6:33 (NKJV)
Admittedly, there have been countless times in my life when I gave God the crumbs. It truly takes the power of God and us purposing in our hearts to give Him first place.
As we continue to see changes in our society, I want to encourage you. God is the calm in every crisis and a Christ-centered focus will keep us strong. Undoubtedly, a life outlined with prayer is less likely to unravel. Throughout these uncertain times, are you committed to giving God more than just the crumbs? I am.
Speaking of today’s social climate check out: “From Death to Life in a Mother’s Womb.”
Stockphoto/1305169724/Fizkes
Bonnie Lovelace is an “in house” writer on The Hallelujah House. She currently resides with her husband in the Tidewater area of Virginia. Bonnie has two grown children, and devotes her spare time to sharing the love of Jesus with all those she encounters. If you’d like to read more about Bonnie or connect with her personally, you can find her at the “About Us” tab on the homepage.
