Stirred By The Scriptures

I have been able to spend some time recently with good friends. One of the things it reminds me of is the value of friendship. There is a wealth in long term friendship that cannot be calculated. It is in the ebb and flow of relationship that we grow and see the Holy Spirit at work. It is also where you share life’s joys and sorrows. Friendship is the tapestry of life.

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” (Romans 12:5) Those simple words of Paul are a tall order for any one on any day. Let them be the meditation of your heart as you begin this week.

I wonder what words you would use to describe your life today? There would probably be as many different descriptions as there are circumstances that we face. Personally I seldom find myself far from being in need. The idea that I am in constant need of a savior resonates deep within. So I will turn to these words from Psalm 40 as we close out another week.

“Yet I am poor and needy;
may the Lord think of me.
You are my help and delieverer;
O my God, do not delay.”

“But may all who seek you
rejoice and be glad in you;
may those who love your salvation always say,
The Lord be exalted!” - Psalm 40:16

The psalmist ties some interesting thoughts together. The joy and happiness that I long for is found as I pursue seeking the Lord. I must believe that the source of my joy is God but I must also actively seek him as opposed to anything else. There are times when I am quick to say that my joy comes from the Lord and then go looking everywhere else for it. If I believe that God is truly my satisfaction then I must head in that direction.