What the journey is like ...

"... Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.  Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith ..." - Hebrews 12:1-2

I am finding (not surprisingly) that this journey is not easy!  It seems that distractions and temptations proliferate more than normal when I seek to spend deeper time with God.  Sometimes I overcome them, sometimes I let them crowd out the time I intended for God.

I am becoming more aware that it is not about the fast or time, it is about my relationship with God. On Sunday I spoke about grace and how God is the One doing his work in us.  And that is what it is all about.  Grace.  I can't earn a deeper walk with God by my fasting (a Daniel fast), I can't manipulate God by the time I spend with Him.  But by His grace, I am welcomed closer in.

So, when I have not been able to stick to my intentions, I pick myself up and continue on.  If I have not been able to speak in my spiritual language for an hour in the morning I try to make it up later in the day.  I try to focus on Jesus. And I notice God is speaking during these times.  I receive impressions in my mind while praying, and then write them down in my journal. 

Above all, I recognize that this journey will take perseverance.  I have a busy life and there are plenty of distractions.  But I am hungry for a deeper relationship, and it is my Father's good pleasure to give me the Kingdom (Luke 12:32)

So be encouraged, and continue the good fight!

Love you all, pastor Gerry