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John 10:10 – The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. (ESV)
I suspect that most of us have a predisposition to want more in life. Presently, I want more time to work. I had a minor surgery last month, and as a result, I am still not finished with the refurbishment that I undertook over two months ago. If I am going to heal, by the grace of God, I have to do less and let the healing process do its work.
Finally, I now have my brain back from the fug caused by the earlier pain. I have learnt from experience that, in an attempt to distance itself from the pain, my body attempts to switch off. It is quite scary how, separate from the site of injury, pain can deaden the brain's capacity to think. Years ago, I had the same fug caused by work stress.
It is in these situations that we may find it harder to hear God, because the high level of pain — physical or mental — gets in the way of being in a peaceful state of mind to receive. It reminds me of the POMs (Poor Old Me) where I am preoccupied with my focus inwards instead of upwards. I sometimes talk about the "little boy" who calls out to my inner self, "Life is not fair", and so it is in this case. I want healing!
Pain is not the only incitement that can stop us from seeking God; depression, wilfulness, and foolish desire are some others that, in a similar manner, can crowd out the voice of God. Consequently, God's Word to us in the Bible can seem miles away.
Yet, we know, as in today's Scripture verse, that God always wants to bring us life. Sometimes, it comes in the form of redemptive healing, but for us as Christians, it is found mainly in the heart and mind. Life in Jesus with the Father, through the agency of the Holy Spirit, is what we are created to treasure whilst we are here on earth.
As we find this treasure, we are promised abundant life: a place where we are found at peace in Jesus.
So, it is up to us to ask for Jesus' help to change our focus, to let go of the fear, frustration, guilt, and shame, and to hold our nerve.
As we call out to Jesus in praise and thanks for His life given for us, by this grace from God, may we subdue all things not of Him, because Jesus came to bring us freedom. It is a matter of will and determination to reach out to Jesus in prayer.
Prayer: Lord, help us. As we reach out to You today in Jesus' name above all other names, set us free from doubt, anguish, and fear, and grant to us Your life-giving peace and presence. Amen.
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Amen, Rod.
Thank you, Rod. Good advice for all of us.
Yes, pain can bring us closer to God – dependent on the Holy Spirit for help.
Perfect! I needed that. You really spoke to me today.
Thank you.
Wonderful devotion, especially as we age hopefully with grace. Prayers for you to be pain free.
Just exactly what my husband needed to hear today. We thank you for sharing.
(Manitoba)
Thank you for taking the time, even with your health challenges, to reach out to others with your important message. May God continue blessing you during your healing.
Hi Rod,
I full get this message today. It is important to stay tuned in to Jesus even when we have to really work at it. Negative thoughts come so quickly into our brains. Jesus definitely wants us to have an abundant life. Thanks for sharing. Blessings.
Thank you, Rod, for another of your very positive devotionals. Yes Jesus is ever present to receive our prayers for what ever situation we are facing. Taking our situations to the Lord gives us relief from anxiety as we put our trust in Him and remain patient for His reply. May you soon find relief from your present pain and discomfort. Blessings for your writings.
I pray you continue to recover and get back to your project!
Blessings.
It is indeed a matter of will and determination to reach out to God/Jesus in prayer; however, as we ‘train’ ourselves to call on His Name, calling on Him becomes our ‘knee jerk response/reaction. May HE train us to ACTUALLY lean on Him, by living as if He were right with us, listening, assessing and guiding us at all times. God bless you Rod as you go through valleys that make life a struggle. Glory to God who walks with us all the way – all the time.