Late night and early mornings are the best times for me to get the quiet time I need as a mother.
Some days ago, during one of my early morning moments, all my children had awakened.
Each one demanded something from me. Milk, water, turning the television to another show, and even some breakfast.
Being that I was really enjoying my time of peace and spiritual filling, there was a slight temptation in my flesh that wanted to get annoyed…
But then… I was reminded of the many moments Jesus had sailed away to get some alone time to spend with the Father, but was interrupted by people that demanded something that only He could provide.
Instead of ‘getting annoyed’ like most people have done, Jesus responded to their needs with a willing heart and a right spirit.
His purpose to show up for others, even when it could have felt inconvenient, was far greater than anything. It exemplified the love and faithfulness of God and that He is never too far or too busy to see about that call to Him.
One important lesson I’ve learned from this moment is to not have my mind set on having devotion in a specific way.
God can come in any way and during any time.
Instead of seeing these needy times as interrupted moments, it should be seen as an opportunity to serve one another with the love of Christ.
Most times, it is these very moments that allow us to see how great the harvest is so that we can show up as the workers that Father God has called us to be.
A MOMent to Reflect:
Showing up and working for the Lord means to show up for others.
The purpose of our existence is to be the hands and feet of Jesus while on earth.
This must be done with a willing heart and a right spirit.
The good news about these ‘opportunity’ moments is that as we fill others up and meet their needs, God is doing the same for us.
It pleases Him as we serve one another.
He rewards those that obey Him – no matter the cost that must be paid.
Sacrificing ourselves, our time, our money and resources is to be expected IF we are true disciples of Christ.
Life is no longer about serving our individual selves, instead, it is about serving others through our service unto Christ.
What we can get in our own quiet time can still be given in whatever opportunity moments God place us in.
Because He’s good and faithful at all times, so shall we!
Then He [Jesus] began to teach them, saying,
“Blessed [spiritually prosperous, happy, to be admired] are the poor in spirit [those devoid of spiritual arrogance, those who regard themselves as insignificant], for theirs is the kingdom of heaven [both now and forever]. “Blessed [forgiven, refreshed by God’s grace] are those who mourn [over their sins and repent], for they will be comforted [when the burden of sin is lifted].
“Blessed [inwardly peaceful, spiritually secure, worthy of respect] are the gentle [the kind-hearted, the sweet-spirited, the self-controlled], for they will inherit the earth.
“Blessed [joyful, nourished by God’s goodness] are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness [those who actively seek right standing with God], for they will be [completely] satisfied. “Blessed [content, sheltered by God’s promises] are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.
“Blessed [anticipating God’s presence, spiritually mature] are the pure in heart [those with integrity, moral courage, and godly character], for they will see God.
“Blessed [spiritually calm with life-joy in God’s favor] are the makers and maintainers of peace, for they will [express His character and] be called the sons of God.
“Blessed [comforted by inner peace and God’s love] are those who are persecuted for doing that which is morally right, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven [both now and forever]. “Blessed [morally courageous and spiritually alive with life-joy in God’s goodness] are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil things against you because of [your association with] Me. Be glad and exceedingly joyful, for your reward in heaven is great [absolutely inexhaustible]; for in this same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”
Matthew 5:2-12 AMP
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