Thursday April 7, 2011

It seems that once again, God picked today's scriptures out just for me! Even though I know in my own heart that Christ is uplifting, merciful and loving, I can't help but take today's readings as a guilt trip of sorts. Or perhaps my Father is just being firm and tough-loving with me.

John 5:31-47 - "...He was a burning and shining lamp, and for a while you were content to rejoice in his light. But I have testimony greater than John's...and you do not have his word remaining in you...You search the scriptures, because you think you have eternal life through them; even they testify on my behalf. But you do not want to come to me to have life...How can you believe, when you accept praise from one another and do not seek the praise that comes from the only God?"

Granted, I picked out the verses that spoke to me, and they may not be in the context in which I feel that they apply to me...but nevertheless God's word spoke to me. Especially the verse about, "How can you believe, when you accept praise from one another and do not seek the praise that comes from the only God?" and "but you do not want to come to me to have life." Those are harsh accusations, and I hate to say it, but correct. I do search texts and scriptures to get closer to God and to help me understand and on the right path...but how often do I just sit in silence, pray and just be with God? This is a hard task for me to do. Today I pray for continuing strength, that I may come back to the Lord all day long, asking for mercy, faith and love. For if I seek only the praise and approval of others and not my God, where will that get me?