Keep in Step
During the month of July, my thoughts turn to independence, freedom and I think about the men and women who have so bravely defended our country. One of my favorite people in the entire world is Lt. Gen. Sam Wilson (Ret.) of Rice, Va. Sam was one of the original Merrill’s Marauders during World War II. He played a part in driving the enemy out of Burma.
Sam is an incredible man and a precious friend. He is the one who said he was able to accomplish all the amazing things he did because he willed himself to put one foot in front of the other, which enabled him to take the next step. This is good advice and I encourage you today if you are struggling in your life then begin by taking the next step. This begins by stepping closer to the Lord, which in turn will lead you one step closer to that job you’ve been praying for, one step closer to reconciling with family and ultimately one step closer to a more joyful and abundant life.
If we are serving Christ and striving to be more like Him, it will be evident to everyone around us through our actions, words and even everyday decisions that we make. This doesn’t just occur once we accept Christ. We must die daily to our sinful nature. We must also commit every area of our lives to Christ. This includes not only the spiritual part of our lives, but our goals and dreams, our relationships, our career and even our mental and physical health.
Paul understood dying to self and living for Christ and he provides us instruction in Galatians 5:24-25:
“Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.”
Category: Scripture
Dear Ben,
Thanks for this devotional. It first caught my eye because my uncle served with Merrill’s Marauders in Burma, but it was the content that kept me reading. I really needed your strong reminder to step closer to God in difficult times. Four years ago, I was severely injured in a fall when a zipline malfunctioned. In one instant, my life was changed! Yet, that injury has caused me to draw closer to God, and to realign my priorities. I now consider all my days a bonus to be spent in His Kingdom work.
God bless and keep you,
Elizabeth
Elizabeth,
Thanks for the wonderful comments! God does indeed have a way of getting our attention and changing our priorities when difficult times strike our lives. It’s obvious that His hand was upon you four years ago for a reason…we all have a specific plan and purpose to fulfill in this life for Christ.
I’ll pass this on to Ben.
Many Blessings, Karin