Asides

January 20
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Uncategorized Aside

“When Pharaoh let the people go, God did not lead them on the road through the Philistine country, though that was shorter. For God said, ‘If they face war, they might change their minds and return to Egypt.’ So God led the people around by the desert road toward the Red Sea. The Israelites went up out of Egypt ready for battle.” (Exodus 13:17-18, NIV)

Sometimes, God chooses for us the longer path, not because He wants to inconvenience us or to delay our progress, but because of perils unseen, unknown, or unappreciated. In the case of the Israelites, they “went up out of Egypt ready for battle,” but they were in no way ready to take-on the mighty Philistines. 

So, do not fret the fact that the path to your desired goal may be lengthened; or the fact that your many preparations may go untapped. However, be sure of your relationship with your heavenly Father and always trust in His all-knowing, all-seeing, all-powerful nature. These qualities benefit us when we walk with God.  – Luther

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January 18
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“Do not let your heart envy sinners, but live in the fear of the Lord always.” (Proverbs 23:17, NASB)

The sinner does not regard the law of the Lord as applicable to him; nor does he consider as valid the instructions of his Creator. The fact is this: We all have been active sinners; dismissive of God’s law and disdainful of His rightful authority.

Are we tempted to envy those we see cruising on sin’s easy boulevard while we endure the inconveniences of the narrow moral road? Yes!  We feel the tug because of our humanity.  However, we were created for grander purposes.  Do not give-up; and do not give-in to envy.

To “live in the fear of the Lord” is to continuously mindful of the things that matter to the Lord — and to allow your heart to follow the Spirit’s leading.  – Luther

Reminder: Daily Encouragement not be published tomorrow, but — Lord willing — returns on Monday!  Make Sunday a great day for rest, recreation, and worship.

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January 17
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“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28, KJV)

Strange as it seems, some people (no matter how tired, weary, harried, or over-committed) will just not take a break. 

Such folks rise early; retire late; work every weekend; and lose vacation time routinely.  For such persons, work is not a means — but an end; a tyrannical, dead end.  To such persons, Jesus offers a simple, effective, alternative: “Come unto me. . . and I will give you rest.”

Take time to pray.  Take time to listen to the Holy Spirit.  Take time to meditate on His word — and He will give you rest.   – Luther

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