Back to School 
Pause
It’s all about determination—the decision to accomplish something in spite of all the resistance that wells up inside.
When you want to make a change, when anyone wants to shake things up, there is always “push back.” Moving from old to new, even when everyone agrees it’s a good idea, is hard.
That’s true even for God’s good ideas about transformation, which often encounter resistance. Still, God has a pretty good record when it comes to changing things—and people. Now might be a good time for you to decide it’s time to give in.
Listen
But strive first for the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
Matthew 6:33
Think
God’s love for us is beyond imagination. It is reassuring to know that God loves us no matter what we do. But God does expect something from us. God calls us to live for God and put God first.
Jesus’ call in Matthew 6:33 has us striving for the kingdom of God. That’s a tall order. What does the kingdom of God look like? Is it a place, a time, or a way of being? I think it’s a little bit of all three. How can we be about being kingdom agents here on earth?
Take time to be God’s agent where you are today. Who knows what ripple effect some little action or words you say may have on those around you?
John Ryan
Pray
Jesus, give me the strength today to be about bringing the kingdom of God to those around me. Give me kind words to say, thoughtful actions, and in all I do, let me be to those around me the love that I have found in you.
Go
Every single encounter with God
Holds the promise of
A new direction;
A new perspective;
A change of heart and mind.
Go now resolved that your life will be
Different;
Transformed;
Made over again
By the overwhelming grace of God.
