July 10

Hebrews 10:24-25 “Let us consider one another to provoke into love and to good works; not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together.”

Please remember to read “My Utmost for His Highest” for Today

PROVOKE

My friend provoked me into action. She noticed I was missing my song.

She said I was abdicating the battle. She said, “Ministry is where you belong.”

Grief was controlling decisions. Selfish sensitivity pressed me to shut down.

“Go back to the place you were working. That’s where God’s Joy will be found.

The enemy has robbed you. You’re cheated. The enemy can weasel in place.

Lost joy indicates lack of obedience. Go back. Pray and fall on your face.

On your face, in the Presence of Jesus, on your face, in His Word everyday.

Soon joy will show on your countenance as His healing is permitted to sway.”

Today, I will bask in His Presence. Today I’ll walk close to the Lord.

In all the heartaches of ministry, spiritual laziness is a label that abhors.

Forgive me Lord, for my laziness. Forgive me for almost falling asleep.

I need Your joy for my journey. My friend said I was like a lost sheep.

The Savior wants to comfort all Pilgrims. He sustains in disappointments and pain.

This lamb had her life out of focus. My friend provoked me to call on His Name.

In His Name anointing will flourish. In His Name His joy is released.

His Name brings hope and healing.  His Name is the Source of my Peace.

©2001-MDB – Thanks to M.M.

PONDER- How can weariness rob the joy of ministry? List things you do to balance ministry and daily living. When do you stop to “smell the roses”? How might recreation and relaxation become a tool for ministry? Encourage others to take breaks for relaxation.

Dear Lord, Forgive me for the times I became so focused on ministry that I neglected my personal needs and the needs of my family. Even YOU “came apart to rest awhile”

Help me to remember that you are there, even in my recreation times. In Jesus’ Name.