I learned the value of level ground from running marathons. I have run marathons on both hilly and level terrain. Like most runners, I prefer level ground because running uphill expends a lot of energy, and running downhill is hard on the quads, especially in miles 20 through 26.2. It’s hard enough for me to make it on level ground!
Some of the hills we encounter in life are unavoidable, but many are caused by us. When we go our own way and do our own thing, ignoring God as the Lord of our life, we put ourselves on a hilly course.
When we go against God’s will as given to us in His Word, we create hills that are hard to endure. God doesn’t do this to us. The devil doesn’t do it. We do it; we choose the course of our lives. We need to learn God’s will and adhere to it. God will help us if we ask. I choose to ask for His help.
Beloved, ask God to help you today and every day. He will teach you His will, and He will lead you on level ground as you obey Him.Scripture:
“Teach me to do your will, for you are my God! Let your good Spirit lead me on level ground!” (Psalms 143:10).
Prayer:
Father, you are my God, and I need your help. I need you to teach me to do your will. As I read your Word and apply it to my life, give me the direction I need. Forgive me for the hills I’ve created in my life by going my own way. I don’t like hills. I desire to be led by your Holy Spirit on level ground, but I also need to be driven. Drive me by your Spirit on level ground. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
(The above is excerpted from the book, Be Encouraged: A Daily Devotional, Volume 1 by Gregory A. Johnson. Copyright © Gregory A. Johnson. All rights reserved.)
Know that you are loved,
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