Monday, February 27, 2012

Our Best or Leftovers

God desires our very best.  Are we giving Him our best or does He get leftovers?  Leftover time, if there is any. Leftover giving if there is anything left to give (resources, energy, talents, gifts, etc.).

God deserves: Our very best - our best time.

You and the Lord have to decide what time that is for you.  Early morning is best because you have the whole day in front of you and you have almost NO distractions.  But, everyone has to do what works for them.  Plan it.  If you don't, at best, He will only get leftovers.

God deserves: Our best resources, energy, talents, gifts, etc.

How can we give Him what He desires and deserves?  Put Him first.  Give Him the best part of our day.  Give Him the best of our resources, talents, gifts, energy, etc.

2 Timothy 2:15:  "Do your best to present yourselves to God as one approved, a workman that does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the Word of Truth."

I am reminded of the old hymn, Give of Your Best to the Master.  He deserves nothing less than our best. 

Monday, February 13, 2012

Learning to Be Content

I have decided that contentment is quite easy when everything is going well.  But, is that really a test of contentment?  I don't think so!  We (Eddie and I), are at the beach as I write this.  We have a beautiful place to stay, great food and the ocean to enjoy.  How easy it is to be content!

Paul said, "I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances." (Philippians 4:11b - my emphasis)

Paul knew what it was like to have plenty (most of us do too).  He also knew what it was like to be in need (many of us have also experienced real need).  Paul had learned the secret of contentment - "I can do everything through Him who gives me strength." (Phillipians 4:13)  Jesus is the answer to contentment in ALL situations.

Contentment in our lives involves much more than whether we have plenty or we are in need.  It involves every area of our lives - our self-image, our family, our husband, children, etc.  It involves our jobs, our church, our houses and homes (there is a difference), and much, much more.

Have I learned to be content in my circumstances - in every area of my life?  Can I say with Paul, "I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation?"  Paul had to learn contentment.  We can too!