We've starting doing something with more and more frequency over the past year that I. AM. LOVING. We invite everyone to a reading plan in the YouVersion app that relates to the season (Advent, Lent, etc.) or our current series of Sunday message. I can't believe how encouraging it is to track along with others as we read scripture together and how much it reinforces what God is speaking to us here at Freedom. I've included this past Tuesday's devotional (the write-up before the scripture reading) for you today because I loved the concept and think you'll find it helpful.
By the way, you can always jump into the reading plan with us at any time... it doesn't matter at all if you're "behind" or missed a few days.
YOUVERSION READING PLAN: Pathway to Peace
In the Word with you,
Pastor Tracy
Balance - Guard the Gates
By Road Warriors
We had prayed about this. I remember the conversation driving to our hotel a few hours earlier, and the conviction that had grown in my heart about it. It was a leap, but I needed to bid the career farewell and narrow my focus to the business startup, mission work, and family. Peace overwhelmed my uncertainty, knowing I was about to remove a giant from my shoulders and elevate almost every other aspect of my life.
My prospective employers on the other end of the line were taken back when I declined interest. This months-long pursuit was a good fit, but it would likely have taken me straight back to where I had begun, over-committed and off balance.
When push came to shove, it was over. Chains broken – a major step of faith. I had a sense of well-being I hadn’t experienced in a very long time. I breathed a deep sigh of relief and sincerely thanked God as we strolled to the beach for a long quiet walk.
I had guarded the gates. When we consider opening the door to more, even things we strongly desire, we must vigilantly yet respectfully protect the balance and purpose God has given us. We can do this in partnership with Him by praying specifically about what we add to our plate. We can do devotion that relates to the question, and then wait and listen to hear if it is ours to take. Is it moving us closer to or further from balance, to or from peace, and to or from God’s desire for our lives?
Guarding the gates in partnership with our Creator is a foundational element of the journey from stress to peace. It provides an amazing purpose-oriented filter for decision-making. We seek His view and purpose in everything. Over time our lives begin to consist more of things that are spiritually valuable and impactful. Life becomes more balanced, peaceful, and meaningful. We move closer to God. This is big.
What is currently standing at your gates, and how would it impact your pursuit of peace if you were to allow it entry? Would it take you nearer or further from balance, and God’s desire for your life? What can be laid down or reduced in your life to foster balance?
This Sunday
(YOUR) WORLD PEACE
Peace in an Angry World
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