Today’s scripture: Philippians 4:12-13 (ESV-text and audio) (KJV) (The Message)
As you read, consider: What might God be saying to me? Summarize your thoughts in a sentence or two.
My thoughts (Morgan Stewart):
A school billboard caught my eye a couple weeks ago. It read: Have a good summer. See you August 10th! Where, oh where, did the summer go? How can school be back in session already? I’m shocked (nearly horrified!) to find that my summer, which held so much promise, is gone.
I find myself thinking of all the projects I have yet to tackle, and trips and outings I have yet to take. What’s happened? My intentions were so good back in May.
This common situation reminds me of the scripture “The spirit is willing, but the body is weak.” (Matthew 26:41)
Often, it’s the same way for many of us regarding our Christian walk. We mean well when we say “I’m getting back to church” but our absences continue. We resolve “I’m going to start giving more to God” but then an unexpected expense appears and nothing changes.
It seems there are always obstacles standing between us and a stronger faith. Satan uses many tools to tear us away from a closer walk with God. In the face of such temptation, we would do well to remember Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” After all, there’s no trial you — together with God — can’t handle.
Thought for the day: God, help me to understand that you are my heavenly partner and eternal source of help and strength. Through your strength, I can resist the temptation to distractions and focus on accomplishing all that you call me to do. Amen.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.