Otis T. McMillan ~ You Matter to God: God’s Goodness, Power, & Presence
What challenges are you facing today? What circumstances cause you to question God’s goodness, power, and presence? Take time to bring these to God. Lay them at his feet. Become aware of his presence. Let God minister to you. Let his nearness encourage your heart. Allow his Spirit and Word to speak to your need. Receive his correction and guidance. Commit yourself to his care as you rise to begin this day. Return to him as often as needed to be refreshed and renewed throughout the day.
In Philippians 4:4-5 we read, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.”
Lord, the temptation is to think that I am on my own in facing challenges. Nothing could be further from the truth. You are near. You designed me to depend on You in all circumstances. Empower me to lead like You today, I pray in Your name, Jesus, amen.
In Romans 8:28 we read, “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”
Knowledge eliminates “maybe”: stay positive, God knows what he is doing. If we look only at today’s events, discouragement can easily overwhelm us. In challenging times it is essential that our trust in God remains strong. Allowing our faith to focus on the Word of God and not our circumstances is vital. The Word tells us that all things work together for good. Stay positive; God knows what he is doing.
Doubt is your enemy. It will seize upon any occurrence that appears to work against you. Reminding yourself that God is in control of all things is a must. It provides the needed information that helps you remain encouraged. Because God knows what he is doing, you can be assured that all that you face is working together for your good.
You matter to God. He knows who you long to be and how you want to honor him. He is at work in you. God knows what it costs you to follow him. He is committed to helping you do what he has called you to do. God is pleased with your efforts to serve others in Jesus’ name. He wants to have even more access to your heart and head. God wants to use your hands to minister to others. He wants his love to overflow through you to others. God wants you to let his Spirit lead through you. Will you?
God, let me find my significance, identity, and security in my relationship with You, so that I live and lead as You designed me to. In Jesus’ name, amen.