We continued with Settle My Soul, focusing on our work, our words and actions, and God turning His ear to listen to us through it all.
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“Then God looked over all he had made, and he saw that it was very good! And evening passed and morning came, marking the sixth day.”
(Genesis 1:31, NLT)
God worked and since we are made in His image, we are to work as well.
Work can occur in any place, at any time. It may be something we receive a paycheck for, or not. It can be a large task, or a simple gesture.
But all of it matters to God.
“We ought not to be weary of doing little things for the love of God who regards not the greatness of the work, but the love with which it is performed.” (Bro. Lawrence, The Practice of the Presence of God)
What is your understanding of work? In what way can your work become an act of worship?
I’m going to start doing my work with worship music playing, so that my work will actually be an act of worship. I’ll probably enjoy my cleaning a whole lot more too š
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In reading 1 Peter 2:12, 23, we find that we are to live in such a way that even when we are falsely accused, others will be won over by our actions.
Not easy for sure. Yet Peter reminds us of the example of Jesus, who left His case in the hands of His Father, knowing God is the only one who can and will judge fairly.
The author states:
“Let your lives be your greatest argument.”
Or to put it another way:
“Preach the Gospel at all times. When necessary, use words.”
(St. Francis of Assisi)
When is it appropriate to defend yourself? Why is it so important to āentrustāĀ your life to the One who judges justly?
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“Turn your ear to listen to me; rescue me quickly. Be my rock of protection, a fortress where I will be safe.” (Psalm 31:2, NLT)
This one verse speaks of four things:
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- God turns His ear to listen TO ME. To each of us. Astounding thought. To think that He purposely inclines His ear towards us to hear what we have to say.
- He rescues us. He listens to us with intention and His intent is to rescue us.
- He brings stability because He is our rock of protection.
- He keeps us safe.
We know when we are in a conversation with a person who is distracted or not interested. But God doesn’t listen to us this way. He listens to us intently and with intent.
What is most encouraging about this image of God listening to you?
~*~*~
Through all we do,
in words and actions,
may we remember –
God turns His ear to listen to us.
Photo 1: by Crystal de PassillĆĀ©-Chabot on Unsplash
Photo 2: by Matthias Wagner on Unsplash
Photo 3: by Frances Gunn on Unsplash
Today I am joining … Tell His Story and Purposeful Faith and InstaEncouragements .
That line about not being weary in the little things grabbed hold of my heart just now. For some reason, they are words I needed today.
Maybe I’ll discover why as I move through the hours.
Joanne, thanks.
Linda, it is the little things that most often make me weary. And yet, those are often where I must be the most faithful and diligent. Praying for you this morning.
These are great insights, Joanne! I like to listen to worship music while I’m doing housework too. And I love that image of God turning his ear to us. It’s so encouraging that he is always ready to listen.
Lesley, when I wonder (aka doubt) that God is listening to my prayers, I try to remind myself that He turns His ear to me and bends low to listen. We need to remind ourselves of this promise.
Work, words and actions <āā Do all to the glory of God. Great post, Joanne!
Pinned.
Thanks for linking up at InstaEncouragements!
Sending one of these scriptures to someone who needs it today. Thank you. laurensparks.net
I love how God listens to us. I can picture him leaning in with his whole body because he cares that much. You always leave me with something to ponder.
I am most grateful that His Word leaves you with something to ponder. I love that iron sharpens iron. You always bless me, Mary!