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Listen while you read: "O Canada"1 (Lyrics) |
Acts 2:1-2,41 – When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. Those who accepted [Peter's] message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day. (NIV)
Last year on Canada Day, I decided that the pony and cart would have to stay home, but the dogs could go. So I decorated my three-wheeled trike, put the dogs' Canada Day scarves on them, hitched four of them to the trike, while the other three rode in the basket, and away we went.
At first, I was a little concerned about biking the whole parade route, but soon, I realized that the pedalling was a breeze. The dogs were such terrific helpmates as they trotted alongside. As the four big dogs were leashed two to a side, they were actually pulling the bike along with them. In fact, there were times when I stopped pedalling altogether and still easily managed to maintain our spot in the parade procession.
When the Holy Spirit filled the disciples on the day of Pentecost, life when lived in Him also became much more of a breeze for them, for they received the power of God within them.
The same is still true for us today, if we are willing to yield our minds and wills, emotions and bodies to the power of the Spirit and His leading. Life is just so much more of a breeze doing things in the strength of Christ, rather than trying to accomplish it in and through our own efforts.
John 14:26 – But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and remind you of everything I have said to you. (NIV)
I have found, without fail, that the Lord is always faithful to provide the best way to go or to do things when I offer up to Him any task that I have to do or any decision that I need to make, and ask for His guidance, wisdom, or strength, whatever the need might be. Those difficult, complicated, boring, or fearful tasks become much more of a breeze through the power of His Spirit's leading and strength within me. The wonderful thing is that such power is ours every moment, every day, not just at Pentecost.
So today, if you feel like you're fighting against a strong headwind in life, take a moment and remember to call upon God's helpmate within you: the Holy Spirit and His power, truth, and wisdom. Then, listen carefully to His still, small voice, which will show you the best way to begin to turn that headwind into a veritable breeze.
Prayer: Father God, thank You so much for Your Holy Spirit who dwells within all who believe and accept Christ by faith. Remind us anew, day by day, moment by moment, to call upon His strength and power within us, that the headwinds of life may be downgraded to refreshing breezes. In Christ's name, we pray. Amen.
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Greetings from a sweltering Manitoulin Island.
Thanks for your Devotional!
This one is a real keeper Lynne.
Also a time I wish photos could be included with devotionals.
I can just picture you and the dogs.
Happy Canada Day, Lynn! I so enjoy reading how your animal friends demonstrate Christ’s teachings. What wonderful analogies you are able to create! Thank you!
Blessings.
(ON)
Hi Lynne:
Happy Canada Day!
As soon as I started reading and then your dogs came into the picture, I knew it was you!
Thank you for your wonderful and wise message. God strengthens us to do wonderful things. I am reading today in my church. A few years ago, this would not even be possible for me.
God bless you my internet friend.
Thanks Lynne for sharing this devotional with us. Blessings.
Thank you, Lynne, for your “Breeze” devotional. Very creative, very nice!
Best wishes.
Hi Lynn,
Good devotional, very good words as usual.
Thank you for writing.
I bet you all were an adorable sight in the parade…. the decorated trike with the three dogs in the basket, the dogs in their colorful Canada Day scarves and you keeping a steady pace in the procession!!
What fun!!
Blessings to you, Lynne!