Unlocking Hidden Potential Through Discomfort: A Biblical Perspective
In our pursuit of comfort, we often forget that true growth happens when we step outside the familiar and embrace discomfort. Whether it’s a challenge at work, a difficult season in our relationships, or an unexpected twist in life, discomfort has the potential to unlock something far greater within us. Scripture provides countless examples of how God uses discomfort to shape, refine, and bring out the hidden potential within His people.
Embracing Discomfort as Part of God's Plan
Romans 5:3-4 says, "Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope." This passage highlights an essential truth: discomfort is not just something to be tolerated; it is a tool God uses to build us into the people we are meant to become. When we avoid discomfort, we miss out on the very experiences that develop our endurance, character, and hope.
Think of it like physical exercise. When we work out, we intentionally push our muscles to the point of discomfort. This is not because we enjoy the pain, but because we know that it is the process through which our bodies become stronger. In the same way, God uses moments of spiritual and emotional discomfort to strengthen our faith, reveal our hidden potential, and align us more closely with His purpose for our lives.
Biblical Examples of Growth Through Discomfort
Moses in the Wilderness
Moses’ journey is a powerful example of how discomfort can lead to greatness. After fleeing Egypt, Moses spent 40 years in the wilderness before God called him to deliver the Israelites from slavery. During that time of isolation and uncertainty, Moses was shaped into a leader. His discomfort in the desert was preparing him for a mission far greater than he could have imagined.
Like Moses, we may experience seasons of waiting, frustration, or doubt, but it is often in those very moments that God is equipping us for our next step.
Joseph’s Journey from Prison to Power
Joseph’s life, as told in Genesis 37-50, is a story filled with discomfort. Betrayed by his brothers, sold into slavery, and wrongfully imprisoned, Joseph faced years of hardship. Yet, through it all, God was at work, using those difficult experiences to prepare Joseph for his ultimate role as the second most powerful man in Egypt.
Joseph’s discomfort unlocked his leadership potential and positioned him to save his family and an entire nation. His story reminds us that our greatest seasons of discomfort may be the very moments when God is laying the groundwork for something incredible.
Paul’s Thorn in the Flesh
The apostle Paul, one of the greatest evangelists in the Bible, experienced his own form of discomfort through what he called a "thorn in the flesh" (2 Corinthians 12:7-10). Though we don’t know exactly what it was, Paul pleaded with God to take it away. Yet God’s response was, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."
Instead of removing the discomfort, God used it to teach Paul dependence on Him. This thorn kept Paul humble and constantly reliant on God’s strength rather than his own. Sometimes, God allows discomfort to remain because it serves a greater purpose in our lives, refining our faith and drawing us closer to Him.
The Hidden Potential Unlocked Through Discomfort
The discomfort we experience is often the key to unlocking hidden potential we never knew we had. God uses these moments to stretch us, refine us, and ultimately position us to fulfill His purpose. It’s in the discomfort that:
We grow in faith. When we face trials, we are forced to rely on God more deeply. This deepening of our faith builds spiritual resilience and prepares us for greater challenges ahead.
We discover new strengths. Just as a diamond is formed under pressure, our gifts and talents are often revealed in the midst of adversity. Discomfort pushes us beyond our perceived limits and shows us what we’re truly capable of.
We develop perseverance. James 1:2-4 reminds us to “count it all joy” when we face trials, because the testing of our faith produces perseverance. And perseverance, in turn, makes us “mature and complete, not lacking anything.” Discomfort teaches us the value of pressing on, even when the road is tough.
Becoming a Creature of Discomfort
To live a life of purpose, we must become creatures of discomfort—people who don’t shy away from challenges but embrace them as opportunities for growth. Instead of avoiding hard things, we need to lean into them, trusting that God is at work, even in our pain and uncertainty.
Jesus Himself modeled this for us. In His greatest moment of discomfort, as He faced the cross, He prayed, “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done” (Luke 22:42). Jesus embraced the ultimate discomfort for the sake of God’s greater plan—our salvation. His sacrifice reminds us that discomfort, when surrendered to God, has the power to bring about redemption and transformation.
Leaning into Discomfort
Discomfort is not the enemy; it’s an opportunity. When we step outside our comfort zones, we open ourselves to the growth and transformation that God desires for us. Like Moses, Joseph, Paul, and ultimately Jesus, we are called to embrace discomfort, knowing that through it, God will unlock the hidden potential within us.
So the next time you find yourself in a difficult situation, remember: your discomfort is not in vain. It’s a divine invitation to grow, to stretch, and to become the person God has created you to be. In that discomfort, your potential is waiting to be revealed. Trust God in the process, and watch as He brings forth something greater than you could have ever imagined.

How Do You Handle Problems?
Today, we're going to explore how we handle the problems that life throws our way. Problems are inevitable, but our response to them can determine whether we are buried by them or rise above them. We'll look at a powerful story, reflect on some key biblical examples, and learn how we can use our challenges as opportunities for growth.
The Donkey in the Well
Let me start with a story that illustrates this point. A farmer had a donkey that one day fell into an old, dry well. The well was deep, and the donkey was trapped with seemingly no way out. The animal cried out, and the farmer, realizing the hopelessness of the situation, decided it would be best to cover the well and let the donkey go. He called his neighbors to help, and they all began shoveling dirt into the well.
At first, the donkey panicked. But as the dirt fell on its back, the donkey shook it off and stepped up on it. With each shovel of dirt, the donkey continued to shake it off and step higher. Eventually, the donkey had risen high enough to step out of the well and walk away, free from what had once seemed like an inescapable situation.
This story is a vivid metaphor for how we can respond to the problems in our lives. Instead of letting them bury us, we can use them to rise above our circumstances. The Bible provides many examples of this principle in action.
Biblical Examples of Overcoming Problems
Moses: From Fugitive to Deliverer
Scripture Reference: Exodus 2:11-15, Exodus 3:1-10
Moses was born into a time of great oppression for the Israelites in Egypt. After killing an Egyptian who was beating a Hebrew, Moses fled to the desert to escape Pharaoh’s wrath. He spent years in hiding, a fugitive running from his past. But God had other plans. In the desert, God called Moses to return to Egypt—not as a fugitive, but as the deliverer of His people. What seemed like a problem—Moses’ impulsive act—was used by God to position him for a greater purpose.
Reflection: How often do we run from our problems, only to find that God is calling us to face them head-on? Moses' story teaches us that God can use our past mistakes and current struggles to prepare us for His greater purpose.
Joseph: From the Pit to the Palace
Scripture Reference: Genesis 37:18-28, Genesis 50:20
Joseph’s life was marked by a series of devastating events. His brothers, jealous of his favored status, threw him into a well and later sold him into slavery. He was falsely accused and imprisoned, seemingly forgotten. But God was with Joseph through every trial. Eventually, Joseph rose to become the second most powerful man in Egypt, saving countless lives during a famine, including those of his brothers who had betrayed him.
Reflection: Joseph’s story reminds us that even when life seems unfair and problems overwhelm us, God is at work behind the scenes. The very things that were meant to harm Joseph became the stepping stones to his destiny. "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good" (Genesis 50:20).
David: From Sin to Repentance and Restoration
Scripture Reference: 2 Samuel 11:1-27, Psalm 51:1-12
David was a man after God’s own heart, but even he was not immune to failure. His adultery with Bathsheba and the subsequent murder of her husband, Uriah, were grave sins. However, when confronted by the prophet Nathan, David didn’t deny his wrongdoing. Instead, he repented deeply, seeking God’s forgiveness. Though his sin had serious consequences, David’s sincere repentance led to his restoration and continued legacy as a great king.
Reflection: David's story shows us that our response to our failures matters. We can either be crushed by guilt and shame, or we can turn to God, repent, and be restored. God’s grace is sufficient, even in our darkest moments.
Esther: Courage in the Face of Danger
Scripture Reference: Esther 4:13-16
Esther was a young Jewish woman who found herself in a position of influence as the queen of Persia. When a decree went out to annihilate the Jewish people, Esther faced a daunting decision. She could remain silent and protect herself, or she could risk her life by approaching the king to plead for her people. Esther chose the latter, displaying remarkable courage and faith. Her actions not only saved her people but also demonstrated that God can use anyone, regardless of their circumstances, to bring about His purposes.
Reflection: Esther’s story challenges us to confront our fears and step out in faith, trusting that God has placed us where we are for a reason. "And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?" (Esther 4:14).
Application: How Are You Handling Your Problems?
Each of these biblical characters faced significant problems, yet they chose to respond in ways that allowed them to grow and fulfill their God-given purposes. The challenges we face can either defeat us or become the very tools that shape us into the people God wants us to be.
As the story of the donkey in the well illustrates, problems can either bury us or elevate us. The choice is ours. Do we complain and remain stuck, or do we shake off the dirt and step up, using our problems as opportunities for growth?
Jack Welch, the former CEO of General Electric, once said, "Before you become a leader, success is all about growing yourself. When you become a leader, success is all about growing others." This quote perfectly encapsulates the Christian journey. Our problems are not just about us; they are opportunities for God to grow us so that we, in turn, can help others grow.
Conclusion
So, how do you handle your problems? Are you allowing them to bury you, or are you using them as stepping stones to rise higher? Like the donkey, Moses, Joseph, David, and Esther, you have the power, through God’s strength, to shake off the dirt and step up. Your problems can either be your downfall or your elevation—it all depends on how you choose to respond.
Let’s close in prayer, asking God to help us see our problems not as burdens, but as opportunities to grow and to glorify Him.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the lessons we learn through the stories of those who have gone before us. Help us to see our problems not as obstacles, but as opportunities to grow in faith, character, and perseverance. Give us the strength to shake off the dirt and step up, trusting that You are with us in every trial. May we, like Moses, Joseph, David, and Esther, rise above our challenges and use them for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

The Power Behind the Mic: Trusting in God's Strength Over Our Own
Imagine you’re standing in a grand auditorium with two microphones before you. The first mic is connected to the sound system, ready to amplify your voice to every corner of the room. The second mic, though it looks identical, is disconnected—no matter how loudly you speak into it, your voice will barely carry beyond the stage.
Now, let's consider this as a metaphor for our spiritual lives. The first mic represents relying on God’s power; the second, depending solely on ourselves. One has the power to reach and impact others, while the other, no matter how hard we try, falls short.
The Mic with Power: Relying on God
When we trust in God’s power, we are like the mic connected to the sound system. It’s not about how loudly we shout or how eloquent our words are—what matters is that we’re plugged into the source of true power. Jesus reminds us of this in John 15:5:
"I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." (John 15:5, NIV)
Just as the microphone amplifies the speaker's voice through its connection to the power source, we bear fruit and make a lasting impact when we remain connected to Christ. It's not by our own might or strength, but through His Spirit (Zechariah 4:6).
The Mic Without Power: Depending on Ourselves
On the other hand, when we rely on our own strength, it’s like speaking into a disconnected mic. No matter how much effort we put into it, our words don’t reach far. We may find ourselves exhausted, striving to make things happen, only to see limited results. This is a picture of trying to do God’s work without God’s power.
Proverbs 3:5-6 offers us wisdom on this:
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." (Proverbs 3:5-6, NIV)
When we lean on our own understanding and try to control everything, it’s like using that powerless mic—we struggle, but we don’t see the fruit we desire. But when we trust in the
Lord, submit our plans to Him, and rely on His strength, our voice—our life—carries further and reaches more people for His glory.
Which Mic Are You Using?
So, which mic are you using today? Are you relying on your own efforts, trying to amplify your voice in your own strength, or are you trusting in God's power to carry your words and actions where they need to go? The difference is profound.
As you go about your day, remember this: it’s not about how loud or confident you sound—it’s about being connected to the One who can amplify your life beyond what you could ever achieve on your own. Trust in His power, and watch how He works through you to reach others.
"Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty." (Zechariah 4:6, NIV)

Life Is Not a Dress Rehearsal – Seizing Opportunities to Do Good
Life is not a dress rehearsal. We have only one chance to walk this earth, and the opportunities to do good, to show kindness, and to make a difference are fleeting. How often do we overlook these chances, thinking we can act later, only to find that the moment has passed?
Imagine you’re taking a walk through your neighborhood. You notice a piece of trash on the sidewalk and think to yourself, "I'll pick it up on my way back." But when you finish your walk, you realize you took a different route home. The opportunity to clean up your community is gone, perhaps for good.
This seemingly minor scenario is a powerful metaphor for life. Each day presents us with countless opportunities to do good—some small, some significant. Yet, how often do we delay, thinking we'll get to it later? The Bible reminds us that our time is short and that we must be diligent in making the most of every moment.

Living with Purpose
Ephesians 5:15-16 encourages us to "be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil." In other words, we are called to live intentionally, recognizing that each moment is an opportunity to do something meaningful. When we delay or ignore these opportunities, we risk missing out on the chance to make a real impact.
James 4:13-14 reminds us of the uncertainty of life: "Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes." This verse challenges us to act now, rather than waiting for a more convenient time that may never come.

Doing Good in the Present
Galatians 6:9-10 encourages us to persevere in doing good: "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers." This scripture speaks to the importance of seizing every opportunity to do good, even when it's challenging or inconvenient.
Opportunities to do good are all around us, whether it's offering a kind word to a colleague, helping a neighbor in need, or picking up that piece of trash on the sidewalk. These actions, though seemingly small, can have a ripple effect, creating positive change in our communities and in the lives of those around us.

The Call to Act Now
The next time you find yourself thinking, "I'll do it later," remember that life is not a dress rehearsal. The opportunity to act may not come again. Whether it's a chance to help someone, stand up for what's right, or simply make the world a little better, don’t wait. Act now. Make the most of every opportunity, knowing that your actions, no matter how small, have the power to make a difference.
In the end, leadership and living with purpose are about more than just big moments—they're about the small, everyday choices we make to do good. By living with intention, seizing opportunities as they come, and trusting God with the outcome, we can make a lasting impact on the world around us.
So, the next time you see that piece of trash on the sidewalk, pick it up. The next time you feel prompted to help someone, do it. Life is too short to wait for a better time. Seize the moment, and make the most of the one chance you have to walk this earth.

Have you ever experienced the sting of hurtful words from a friend or colleague? Words can remarkably shape our emotions, affect our relationships, and even define our perceptions. Communication plays a pivotal role in our daily lives in a world filled with interactions. The book of Ephesians offers valuable insights into the impact of words on our relationships, emphasizing the importance of mindful communication and the act of listening.
 
The Impact of Hurtful Words
 
Humans are inherently social creatures, relying on effective communication for understanding and connection. Unfortunately, careless words can wound deeply. Just like looking through a dirty window obscures the view, when anger or unhappiness seep into our words, they become barriers to meaningful communication. These negative interactions not only damage relationships but also hinder collaboration and productivity.
 
Ephesians 4:20-32
 
Ephesians 4:20-32 highlights the significance of nurturing positive communication. The passage encourages us to replace bitterness, anger, and harsh words with kindness, compassion, and forgiveness. By doing so, we create an environment where relationships can thrive and our words become healing instruments rather than tools of destruction.
 
Our Words and Actions: Agents of Change
 
Our words and actions hold tremendous power over the emotional well-being of those around us. Positive words have the ability to uplift spirits, inspire action, and foster unity. Conversely, negative words can breed resentment, mistrust, and emotional distance. It's essential to recognize that the impact of our communication isn't limited to the moment; it can shape the course of our relationships and even influence the paths we take in life.
 
Proverbs 18:13: The Art of Listening
 
The ancient wisdom found in Proverbs 18:13 underscores the importance of attentive listening. Jumping to conclusions or formulating responses without truly understanding the speaker's perspective can lead to misunderstanding and conflict. Listening is a deliberate act communicating empathy and respect, showing others their thoughts and feelings are valued. We can lay the groundwork for harmonious interactions by actively engaging in empathetic listening.
 
Practicing Mindful Communication
 
Just as athletes train to excel in their chosen sports, we must train ourselves in the art of communication. It's an ongoing journey that requires self-awareness, practice, and humility. Regular self-assessment and seeking honest feedback from trusted individuals can help us refine our communication skills. Moreover, in our pursuit of effective communication, we should also seek guidance from a higher source—God.
 
Listening to God
 
Listening to God is as crucial as listening to those around us. By seeking guidance from a higher power, we can gain insights that guide our interactions and choices. This spiritual connection can help us navigate difficult conversations, offer support to others, and choose words that foster understanding and empathy.
 

Our words possess immense power. They can either mend or harm, build or break, unite or divide. Effective communication isn't merely a skill—it's a choice to cultivate meaningful connections and relationships. By embracing the wisdom found in Ephesians and Proverbs, we can embark on a journey of intentional communication that uplifts, inspires, and transforms both ourselves and those around us.

In life's journey, each of us carries a backpack filled with memories, experiences, and emotions from the past. However, there comes a point when we must shed the weight of these burdensome thoughts to embrace the new beginnings that await us fully. The biblical verse 2 Corinthians 5:17 reminds us of the transformative power of becoming new and leaving behind the old. Just like how we update our wardrobe with new clothes, we too must clean out the closets of our minds and hearts to make room for the present and future blessings.
 
The Metaphor of New Clothes
 Imagine buying a set of fresh, fashionable clothes. Would you continue wearing the old, worn-out garments you have outgrown? Just as we do not hesitate to discard outdated clothes, we should be equally willing to let go of the past that no longer serves us. The verse in 2 Corinthians draws a parallel between our spiritual renewal and our physical renewal through new clothes. It's a symbolic representation of the need to shed the heavy load of past mistakes and regrets.
 
Embracing Change and Transformation
 In our closets of memories, we often hoard old grudges, regrets, and self-doubt. Just as new clothes reflect change in our lives, we must embrace the idea that personal growth and transformation demand that we relinquish the weights of the past. The verse invites us to step into a renewed sense of self, unburdened by the baggage of our history and open to the possibilities of the future.
 
Forgiveness: A Key to Moving Forward
 Isaiah 53:4 highlights how Jesus bore our grief, reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles. In moving forward, forgiveness plays a crucial role. This includes both seeking forgiveness from others and forgiving ourselves. Carrying the weight of guilt only hinders our progress. By acknowledging our mistakes, seeking redemption, and forgiving ourselves, we pave the way for a brighter future.
 
The Persistence of Negative Reminiscence
 The devil often capitalizes on our vulnerability by replaying our past mistakes in our minds like a never-ending movie. These negative reminiscences keep us tethered to the past and prevent us from fully enjoying the present. Philippians encourages us to press forward with Christ, underscoring the importance of looking ahead and not dwelling on the past.
 
Cleaning Out the Closet for New Blessings
 Letting go of the past is like cleaning out a cluttered closet. Just as old clothes take up space, old memories, and regrets consume mental and emotional space. To welcome new blessings, we must create a room by discarding the emotional clutter that holds us back. When we free ourselves from the shackles of the past, we open ourselves up to a life filled with positivity, joy, and growth.
 
In the grand tapestry of life, we are constantly evolving, growing, and transforming. The biblical verses remind us that just as we shed old clothes to make way for the new, we must also release the past to embrace the present and future. Letting go of the past requires courage, forgiveness, and a conscious effort to move forward. By doing so, we make room for the blessings that await us, unburdened by the weight of what was. So, let us clean out our closets of old regrets and mistakes and step confidently into the new journey that lies ahead.

In the journey of faith, followers of Christ are called to emulate the teachings of Jesus in every aspect of their lives. This includes not only their personal spiritual growth but also their interactions with friends and family. While love, compassion, and selflessness are at the core of Christianity, it's also important to recognize the value of setting healthy boundaries for the sake of nurturing relationships. Let's delve into why establishing boundaries with friends and family, guided by scripture, is not only acceptable but crucial for maintaining strong and harmonious connections.
1. Respecting the Temple of the Holy Spirit: The Bible emphasizes the concept that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). This teaching calls for self-respect and the maintenance of emotional and mental well-being. By setting boundaries, you're acknowledging the importance of preserving the temple God has given you and ensuring that you're able to serve Him effectively.
2. Honoring the Two Greatest Commandments: Jesus famously summarized the commandments into two principles: loving God and loving your neighbor as yourself (Matthew 22:37-39). While unconditional love and selflessness are central to these teachings, it's worth noting that loving oneself is also included. Boundaries serve as a way to show self-love and respect, allowing you to recharge spiritually, emotionally, and mentally, so you can better love and serve those around you.
3. Emulating Jesus' Example: Throughout his ministry, Jesus modeled setting boundaries. He frequently withdrew to solitary places to pray (Luke 5:16), and he even declined certain requests to ensure that he remained aligned with his purpose. Similarly, by establishing boundaries, you're following the example of Jesus, demonstrating that even he recognized the importance of balance and self-care.
4. Preserving Relationships: Boundaries can actually strengthen relationships by fostering respect and preventing resentment. Open communication about your needs and limits can help avoid misunderstandings and conflicts. Proverbs 25:28 warns, "A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls." Just as walls protect a city, boundaries protect relationships from becoming overwhelmed and breaking down.
5. Guarding Against Manipulation: Setting boundaries guards against manipulation and toxic behaviors. In Ephesians 4:15, Paul encourages speaking the truth in love. This involves addressing issues directly and honestly. By doing so, you help maintain genuine connections that are based on authenticity rather than pretense or hidden agendas.
6. Balancing Responsibility and Rest: Galatians 6:5 teaches that each person should carry their own load. Boundaries help delineate your responsibilities from those of others. This prevents taking on burdens that were never meant for you and allows you to focus on what God has specifically called you to do. It also promotes rest and avoids burnout, ensuring you have the energy to fulfill your God-given purpose.

​Being a Christ follower doesn't mean sacrificing your well-being for the sake of others. Setting boundaries, guided by the principles of the Bible, is an integral part of self-care and relationship building. By doing so, you honor the temple of the Holy Spirit within you, embody the two greatest commandments, follow the example of Jesus, preserve relationships, guard against manipulation, and balance your responsibilities with rest. Remember, through boundaries, you're not just preserving your own spiritual and emotional health; you're creating an environment that reflects Christ's love and wisdom in all your interactions.

​As we read this story from Luke, we see the Miracle of Jesus. We also see how He uses this to talk to the Pharisees. But I want us to look at one verse in this story and little deeper. 
 
Look at Luke 5:18! This talks about how some men brought him to Jesus to be healed. Now if you have done any studies in these times you will know that people really didn’t hang out with the sick or someone who has dealt with this type of situation. The reason why is some people in that time believed that you were being punished by your sins or the Sins of your parents. In that case people who dealt with any type of sickness we shunned. In this story it talks about these Men who brought the man to Jesus to be healed. This tells me that these men were friends of this man and knew if they could get him to Jesus he would be healed. 
 
I want us to look at 2 things that I Pulled from this verse.
The first is the Faith these men had. They had some much faith in Jesus they knew if they could get their friend to him, he would be healed. However, we also must remember it’s not that he was healed, it was they HAD FAITH. Sometimes we ask Jesus for healing of a friend or love one but in our eyes sometimes we don’t see the healing that we want. Then, we may ask well is there really a God. He didn’t heal my Blank_____ “this is were can you feel in the word.” We must remember it’s not about us and sometimes we don’t get what we want. If Jesus only said to him your sins are forgiving and the man didn’t get up and walk would they have less faith? 
 
The second thing I pulled from this verse is that the men didn’t leave their friend. They stayed with him even though I’m sure they were shunned just as their friend was because of his Illness. Are we as Christ Followers only hanging out with people that are like us? Do you have a friend that needs your friendship to bring them to Christ? Remember the one thing we don’t know is if this man who was paralyzed believed in Christ! How many of us need to be friends with people that are different then us that doesn’t really know Christ? Jesus Calls us Christ followers to share His love with everyone. Not only people who look like us, think like us, and hang out in our own circles.
 
So today I want you to think of this one verse and ask yourself, do you have the Faith as these men and do you have a friend that you need to share the Love of Christ with that is different than you
 

​As a Dad, there were plenty of times I would hold my daughters’ hand to keep them safe. I remember a time while my Daughter and I were walking through the parking lot and I was holding her hand. Even though the parking lot didn’t have any cars in it, what it did have was lots of holes. As we were walking, and I was holding her to keep her from falling she kept wanting to let go so she could run like any kid would do. So finally, I let her go even though I knew what the outcome would be. Yep it didn’t take long, and you guessed it she hit the payment. When I grabbed her to make sure she was ok and she was, but if you asked her, she thought she was almost dead. I looked at her and said now you see why I wanted to hold your hand to keep you from getting hurt. 
 
Isn’t this like life when you walk with Christ. He is holding our hand as we walk with Him but for some reason, we want to let go and run like we know where we are going. Then it doesn’t take long for us to hit the ground, but He is right their picking us up. Jesus calls us to HOLD HIS HAND and walk joyously with Him through each day. Together we will savor the pleasures and endure our difficulties life brings. Remember we don’t have to choose between staying close to Him and staying on course. Since Jesus is the way, staying close to Him is staying on course. As we focus our thoughts on Him, He will guide us carefully along todays journey. In today’s walk with all the things that are going on and the distractions we listen to each day, Either through Social Media or the 15 different News Channels. This can Cause us to let go of His hand and start to try to control things. We don’t need to worry about what’s around the next bend if we are truly walking with Him. We need to concentrate on enjoying His presence and staying in Step with him.   

​IF you are like me than sometimes when you start to study or read about 10 minutes into your mind shifts and you start to think about other things. 
The other day, I was studying for a Leadership Class. Within about 10 minutes, I was thinking about what needed to be doing outside in the yard. All of a sudden I was writing all the things I needed to take care of and not even studying or focusing on the thing I set out to do.  Once I caught myself, I went back to studying and in about 10 min here we go again. Do we do this when we face struggles in our life. We start to focus on them and then we lose focus and start to focus on something else, so we don’t have to deal with it? 
 
Let’s take a different look at this and if you are Christ Follower do you do this when your studying His word? I Know I do! When we do this, I call this drifting with a lose Anchor. God wants us to be the center of our lives, the Anchor of our soul. Yes, our mind is going to wonder but how far are we going to let in wonder. An anchor on a short rope lets a boat drift only slightly before that taut line tugs the boat back towards the center. When we drift away from Christ, The Holy Spirt within us gives a tug, prompting us to return to Him. As we become increasingly attuned to His presence, the length of rope on our soul’s anchor is shortened. We will only wander a short distance before feeling that inner tug telling us to return to Center.  
 
In Hebrews 6:19 it says “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure”
 
My question is What is your Anchor attached to? Worldly sand or a Solid Rock as Christ?