Remain Vigilant - Lam. 2:3-4

"All the strength of Israel vanishes beneath his fury. The Lord has withdrawn his protection as the enemy attacks. He consumes the whole land of Israel like a raging fire. He bends his bow against his people as though he were their enemy. His strength is used against them to kill their finest youth. His fury is poured out like fire on beautiful Jerusalem." Lam. 2:3-4

I know this is probably an over reaction on my part, but I am sure Jerusalem found ways to justify all their actions right up until God said, "no mas!" I don't want to be one who deludes himself into believing he is on the right path, only to discover I have turned God into my enemy. I know, over reaction, but it is just how I am feeling right now. A LOT has been going wrong lately, and without going into detail in a public space, the last straw was Dave getting into yet another car accident this morning and totaling his car. Praise goes to God for keeping him from being injured, but I can't help but think, "what's up God?" Have I made a wrong turn, or am I just under attack? Neither question can my humanity answer, it will have to come from God. Whatever the answer, I feel the need to turn up the intensity on how I am walking daily with God. It's too easy to be lulled into living what has turned out to be a very good life, and let slide the daily activities he calls me to do. How am I supposed to "take up my cross"? What have I neglected? Am I being lazy, or am I just spoiled? Or is it both? Maybe it is none of the above, but I know that I have room to turn up the knob on the vigilance meter.

Lord, don't allow me to become blinded to your ways; don't let me be seduced by this world. I know that I am but a breath, here for a moment in eternity. Keep my focus on you Lord, show me my weaknesses, protect my family and I from Satan's attacks.

Today's reading: Lam. 1-2; Obad.; Rev. 14

The Royal Family - Rev. 5:10

"And you have caused them to become God's Kingdom and his priests. And they will reign on the earth." Rev. 5:10

Hard to remember that this was God's purpose from the beginning, but it is key. I was created to be loved by God, to BE his Kingdom on earth and a priest that represents him. Living day to day in this world tries to strip this identity and purpose from me. It minimizes me, my efforts and my abilities. I was called to great things, both in this earth and later in the new earth when I will reign with him. Satan is a powerful enemy and a master deceiver, but my God is greater. My God has given me his Holy Spirit and the victory over this world and its ruler. Praise God! My God is my king and I am his priest, I should be living every day in THIS reality, not the lie that the enemy weaves.

God, I pray that you show me how to live victoriously every day. There is no defeat when I live for you. Show me how to redefine success, and re-prioritize my life.

Today's reading: Ezek. 12-14, Rev. 5