Devotional
A “To Do” list that works! Part 1
“Jesus never said it was an easy road to travel, He only said you’d never be alone. So when your last thread of hope begins to come unraveled, Don’t give up! … Life is hard, but God is good.” —Joel Lindsey and Pam Thumb
Life is hard!
There is always so much to do and never enough time to do it. And while the ever-mounting “to do” list keeps you running — there are unexpected problems and troubles that arise at every turn, from health to finances to the pressures of home.
Add in the fears, worries, and stresses of life … and it’s enough to make you want to throw in the towel some days and quit.
God has a better plan for you.
So how can you experience God’s best for you when life is tough? Practice this “to do” list …
1. Pursue Joy
“Rejoice in the Lord always: again I will say, rejoice” (Philippians 4:4).
No matter what is going on in your life, you can still exercise your ability to rejoice. Encourage yourself in the Lord by recounting all the good things you have been given through Christ:
His wisdom … His identity … His love … His purpose … His power … His truth … His peace … His faithfulness … and His plan for your good.
Joy comes from Jesus!
2. Practice Patience
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us” (Hebrews 12:1).
When your rights are yielded totally to the Lord, you are less prone to become irritated and angry when things do not go your way.
Give your day, every day, to Him. When frustrations come, breathe. Set your mind on things above and practice patience.
3. Trust the Lord
We tend to be suspicious — to “hold out” instead of “hold on” to people. Trust must be earned.
Not so with God. He speaks only truth, and His intentions are entirely pure. To fully experience God’s best, you have to learn to trust Him … completely.
Cast your cares on Him. Let God do His perfect work. Trust His answers for you, even if they happen to be “no” or “wait.”
My prayer this week—Father, life is so busy! In my own strength, I can do nothing. But with your help, your grace, and your priorities in front of me, I can do all things! Help me pursue joy, practice patience, and trust you always.