Sometimes we are fresh and eager to attend a prayer meeting, but do we feel that same freshness for such mundane tasks as polishing shoes?Being born again by the Spirit is an unmistakable work of God, as mysterious as the wind, and as surprising as God Himself. We don’t know where it begins— it is hidden away in the depths of our soul. Being born again from above is an enduring, perpetual, and eternal beginning. It provides a freshness all the time in thinking, talking, and living— a continual surprise of the life of God. Staleness is an indication that something in our lives is out of step with God.

We say to ourselves, “I have to do this thing or it will never get done.” That is the first sign of staleness. Do we feel fresh this very moment or are we stale, frantically searching our minds for something to do? Freshness is not the result of obedience; it comes from the Holy Spirit. Obedience keeps us “in the light as He is in the light…” (1 John 1:7).Jealously guard your relationship with God. Jesus prayed “that they may be one just as We are one” — with nothing in between (John 17:22). Keep your whole life continually open to Jesus Christ.

Don’t pretend to be open with Him. Are you drawing your life from any source other than God Himself? If you are depending on something else as your source of freshness and strength, you will not realize when His power is gone.Being born of the Spirit means much more than we usually think. It gives us new vision and keeps us absolutely fresh for everything through the never-ending supply of the life of God._________________________________________________________

January 20, 2016

Journal Entry for Today-JDV

Good morning Lord and thank you for this devotional and the music for today. Based on Your teaching and guiding over the last several months and weeks, David and I are clear about one thing: that regardless of the situation, when we are surrendered and connected, our service will never be mundane. You have brought us to the place where we have begun to understand that when we are surrendered and connected to Jesus, there is no mundane. A simple service like feeding many guests becomes a miracle. Compassion becomes commonplace and love transcends our expectations and boundaries. Is this the lesson Lord?

 

And God says…”When you are surrendered and connected, and can then let go of your own expectations about how goals, tasks, service and relationships should work, you are able to sense and feel the power of the Holy Spirit. The power of the Holy Spirit will transcend any human notions about mundane, routine service. It is the same power that gives you hope and allows you to be undisturbed inside of disturbing circumstances. It is the same power that energizes you in service when you would normally be tired and worn out. It is the power that allows you to live out the Sermon on the Mount, and or rest in My grace when you cannot. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not rely on your own feelings, or understanding and I will make your paths straight. Seek first the kingdom of God, and I will provide everything else you require for abundant living. Delight yourself in the Lord and I will give you the desires of your heart.”