Pause

What do you expect from God? For some, this is the question.

But then there is this one: What does God expect from you?

There may be answers to both in the moments just ahead. Listen carefully for the whisper of answers.

Listen

I will praise you with an upright heart, when I learn your righteous ordinances. I will observe your statutes; do not utterly forsake me. How can young people keep their way pure? By guarding it according to your word. With my whole heart I seek you; do not let me stray from your commandments. I treasure your word in my heart, so that I may not sin against you.

Psalm 119:7-11

Think

It’s not easy to stay pure, especially in today’s world.
Violence, sex, greed, and corruption dominate our screens and push their way into our lives. It’s a difficult battle to fight alone.

It would be nice if we could just wrap ourselves in bubble wrap, close our eyes, and hope for the best. Although it would be a lot of fun, the protection would eventually wear out and we would be left exposed to harm.

One way we can keep our lives pure is to wrap our hearts with God’s word. God can protect us from the temptations of the world and help us to live according to God’s plan. Seeking God, keeping God’s commands, and treasuring God’s word in our hearts will keep us from going astray and living in sin.

Patrick Jones

Pray

Righteous Lord, protect me from the temptations of this world. Help me to forever seek you and praise you with an upright heart. Amen.

Go

Go now expectantly into your day,
And walk with your eyes to the horizon.

Believe with confidence;
Anticipate the new;
Assume the unknown;
Be ready for change.

Trust that the Creator is at work;
Await the prompting of Spirit.

Look forward to challenge,
And make it your intention to respond.

Count on God.