Chatting with Jesus
Friday, July 12, 2024
Lord, allowing my mind to dwell on your goodness leaves me grateful but also baffled: How can you keep caring about such a frequent stumbler like me? Somehow, your grace keeps me moving forward in faith. Your ways truly are not man’s ways (Isaiah 55:8). You promised never to leave me nor forsake me. As the apostle Paul wrote in romans 6–8 of his struggles, I can’t believe how foolishly I ignore your standards and do what I know is wrong. Finally, after coming to my senses, you welcome my return with open arms.
From your storehouse of unlimited grace, you empower us to live as you desire. We can do this, because you give your Holy Spirit to live within each person who puts their faith in you. We have your promise never to abandon your followers since, “He [the Holy Spirit] lives with you and will be[is] in you” (John 14:17).
Lord, help me open my heart and allow you to make yourself at home within me. Over the years, you’ve seen how I insist on being in control. Countless times you’ve seen me dig my heels in and refuse to budge. How often have you wanted to kick my backside? Forgive me, Lord, and show me how to plant my roots deeper into your love. I desire to pass your love along to others.
As kids, we sang how your “deep and wide” fountain of love washes over me. As adults, we need to sing that song daily since we still need your love to daily wash over us. May me grow deeper into your love, while your Spirit washes away our impurities.
Amen, Jesus.
THANKFUL 