“I have set the LORD continually before me; because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.” Psalm 16:8

Purposed

 Planning and setting goals help us to measure and accomplish disciplines, commitments and desires. One thing I’ve learned in my Christian walk is it isn’t easy. I can say I want to remember to pray for a friend that asks, or speak up for the Lord when called to, and many other things too, but unless I commit to pray, asking the Holy Spirit to help me, I fail.

Keeping my daily appointment with the LORD is a good and needed thing. I’ve had to ask the Lord to help me get up when my alarm goes off and not hit the snooze. I know He is waiting to talk to me and prepare my day ahead, and I’ve made a commitment purposing in my heart to meet with Him. It’s always well worth it!

I have a longing desire to deepen my relationship with the Lord, but I also desire a vacation trip with my family. Why does the vacation seem easier to plan and accomplish? The Lord wants to bless us with vacations and other fun things, but He also much more wants to bless us in our relationship with Him. That comes with purposing in our hearts to nurture our relationship through Bible study and prayer. I need to pray diligently for this desire, but I also need to set a plan and keep my study time even when something else is pressing or seems more fun, or I’m just too tired. But when I don’t feel like it, I ask the Lord for help when I open my Bible and prayer journal. He always enlightens my heart.

Exercise for our bodies is important for our physical health, but exercising our spiritual awareness is all the more. “For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come” (1 Timothy 4:8). I know personally the value of physical exercise as I age. This contrast of a little versus all is huge! I need to purpose my time with the Lord as the most important time of day and value this precious treasure to meet with Almighty God who loves me.

I can put my trust in the Lord and know He is working even when I can’t see results.

“And those who know Your Name will put their trust in You. For You LORD, have not forsaken those who seek You” (Psalm 9:10).

 “Glory in His Holy Name. Let the hearts of those who seek and require the LORD (as essential need), rejoice!” (Psalm 105:3  AMP). The promise is our joy. Our joy is full when we purpose and seek Him with all our hearts. This excites me. I pray you are excited too.

Dear Lord, I pray we can purpose in our hearts to value this time and pursue the things You share with us that deepen our knowledge and relationship with You as a precious treasure. In Jesus Name, amen.