Focused Faithfulness

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Earlier this morning I posted this quote from Oswald Chambers: "People want the blessing of God, but they can’t stand something that pierces right through to the heart of the matter.”

Sometimes we don't realize that the thing that is keeping God from blessing us is ... us.

I'm not talking about a lack of faith. That's the message of the "prosperity gospel". 

I'm not talking about a lack of good works. That's the message of legalism.

I'm talking about a lack of focused faithfulness. I'm talking about the difference between doing our own thing and hoping that God will drop some blessings on us OR allowing Him to take His rightful place at the center of our lives. There is no greater blessing than knowing that we are walking in step with Him and that He is calibrating our lives to His purpose.

Question: What do you need to do today to refocus?

Please leave a comment below.  I'd love to hear your thoughts.

What If I Could Guarantee You Success This Week?

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"We can make our own plans, but the Lord gives the right answer. People may be pure in their own eyes, but the Lord examines their motives. Commit your actions to the Lord, and your plans will succeed." (Proverbs 16:1-3, New Living Translation)

If you are like me, Monday morning begins with reflection on the plans and responsibilities for the week. Talk about making your list and checking it twice!

These verses this morning remind us to put our plans in perspective. Several things are worth our attention in these few short words.

1. Plans are good. There is nothing in these verses that discourages the making of plans.

2. We are not ultimately in charge. Our plans are for us. They are not for God.

3. Our perspectives are often skewed. We sometimes focus on what looks good. God goes much deeper to focus on what is good.

4. If we submit our plans and our work to God, we WILL succeed. Notice that it does not say we will have the outcome we planned. It says our plans will succeed. 

Does that seem like a contradiction? Not at all! The success is in the submission of our plans and our work to God. Outcomes are beyond our control. Success in the eyes of God is measured by faithfulness to Him.

Question: What are some ways that you have found helpful to commit your plans to the Lord?

Leave a comment below.  I'd love to hear your thoughts.