There’s no “magic” to numbers… is there, Lord?. But You have made certain numbers special to me.
Like Numbe 13. The number many people fear. As if there is some malevolent power attached to it. But for me, Lord — thanks to You — it is a number of awesome BLESSING!
Like today: September 13. The Day I reached the end of myself in one area of struggle. The Day I got on my face before You and gave it all to You.
My Struggle. My Suffering. My Self.
“I urge you… in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God — this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…” (Romans 12:1-2)
I don’t see a conspiracy behind every spiritual tree, Lord. I do know Your enemy is relentless.
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy.” (John 10:10a)
“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls aaround like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” (1 Peter 5:8).
But Your enemy cannot really succeed if I don’t cooperate with him… can he, Lord? Sometimes I do so in ignorance. I’m still growing in my understanding of the authority You have given me as Your daughter, Lord, and how to wield that authority effectively.
But, truth be told, sometimes I’m way ahead of Your enemy in choosing the wrong path.
“… each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desires and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.” (James 1:14-15)
My latest Struggle and Suffering was all about me, Lord. I brought it on myself… because the problem was My Self. Like that cartoon character, Pogo. I had met “the enemy.” She was staring back at me in the mirror.
Which is another reason, Lord, that Your Grace and Loving Kindness are so amazing! No one is more relentless than You!
I am so thankful that Your Holy Spirit did not get tired of pricking my conscience and stirring up my dis-ease. Until I couldn’t take it anymore. So I gave it… to You.
I have always loved Your parable about the prodigal son. He came home knowing he deserved the worst possible reception. But his father ran to him… joyfully embracing and restoring his cherished son.
This morning, that joy was mine, Abba.. The daughter who is, like one hymn says, prone to wander… to leave the Lord she loves. I’m back, Lord. Eager to cooperate with You…, to more fully embrace the Life You have promised me.
“I have come that they may have Life and have it abundantly.” (John 10:10b)
“I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received…” (Ephesians 4:1)
“With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” (Matthew 19:16)
Gratefully,
Abba’s Girl