Leviticus 25; Psalms 32; Ecclesiastics 8; 2 Timothy 4

“While Moses was on Mount Sinai, the Lord said to him, “Give the following instructions to the people of Israel.  When you have entered the land I am giving you, the land itself must observe a Sabbath rest before the Lord every seventh year.  For six years you may plant your fields and prune your vineyards and harvest your crops, but the seventh year the land must have a Sabbath year of complete rest.  It is the Lord’s Sabbath.  Do not plant your fields of prune your vineyards during that year.”  Leviticus 25:1-4 NLT

In times of rest and Sabbath, sometimes I can feel stuck.  I forget that God is working in the waiting.  I wonder how the Israelties felt.  Did they look out on the empty fields and see God’s provision or lack?

“In my search for wisdom and in my observation of people’s burden’s here on earth, I discovered that there is ceaseless activity, day and night.  I realized that no one can discover everything God is doing under the sun.  Not even the wisest people discover everything, no matter what they claim.” Ecclesiastes 8:16&17 NLT

Do I trust that God is in control? Am I worrying about the future so much that I am missing the joy of today?  I can become impatient in the waiting.  I forget all that God has done in the past.  But, maybe God is using those times to reflect on His goodness.  To build my faith.

Paul’s faith was evident in his life.  He was always looking forward. Paul spoke courage and bravery into Timothy, to continue the work that he started.  I think about the words that I am speaking out loud and to myself.  What kind of legacy am I leaving?

“But you should keep a clear mind in every situation.  Don’t be afraid of suffering for the Lord.  Work at telling others the Good News, and fully carry out the ministry God has given you.  As for me, my life has already been poured out as an offering to God.  The time of my death is near.  I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race and I have remained faithful.  But the Lord stood with me and gave me strength so that I might preach the Good News in its entirety for all the Gentiles to hear.  And he rescued me from certain death.  Yes, the Lord will deliver me from every evil attack and will bring me safely into his heavenly Kingdom.  All glory to God forever and ever! Amen.”  2 Timothy 4:5-7,17&18 NLT

Dear Father, Thank you for your faithfulness. Help me to step out in faith even when I don’t understand.  Thank you for always meeting me where I am. Amen.

“For you are my hiding place; you protect me from trouble.  You surround me with songs of victory.  The Lord says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life.  I will advise you and watch over you.” Psams 32:7-8 NLT

Amy(amyctanner)

 

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