Habakkuk 3:17-18 Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior.
Throughout my life, I have struggled with periods that I called “blue funks,” times where nothing specific is wrong, yet everything feels wrong. My default during those times is always to “Count my blessings, name them one by one.” I mentally name all the blessings I can think of: breath in my lungs, a roof over my head, family who loves me, friends who care, my precious Savior.
Deut 33:27 The eternal God is your refuge, and His everlasting arms are under you….
Even now, I sometimes struggle with “blue funks,” this past week being a prime example. They seem to happen more often when I try to relax. Relaxing seems lazy somehow. Being productive is what makes me useful and valuable to those around me. But my precious Savior is whispering to my heart, “I don’t need anything from you but your presence. I created you. I love you. And I want you to know the depth and breadth of My love, but you can only experience that by spending time with Me.” Jesus, Help me to focus on relationship with You instead of activity for the world.
James 4:8 Draw near to God and He will draw near to you….
Lord, Thank You for this day and for Your fierce love, for pursuing me relentlessly, for desiring that I spend time in Your presence, that I take time to know You better. Help me to understand that activity is useful only as it draws me closer to You. Help me to get better at being still in Your presence. Help me to praise You, always. Draw me closer. Amen.
Isaiah 33:2 O LORD, be gracious to us; we wait for You….
Have a blessed day.
My faith, my life, my teaching–it's all a work in progress.