Monday, February 23, 2015

The Allure of Other Things

Old Rugged Cross Wreath found on Pinterest

 But the cares of the world, and the delight in riches, and the desire for other things, enter in and choke the word, and it proves unfruitful. Mark 4:19 (RSV)

So, these are the things that choke out God’s Word, rob us of contentment, and render us unfruitful. Cares and delights and desires threaten to monopolize our thoughts, consume our attention, and turn our minds and affections away from God. Such is the propensity of man who lives in this fallen world. 

But Jesus did not intend for us to be taken out of the world, or shut ourselves away so we might never be tempted.  He wanted us to go about doing good as He did.  He wanted us to be His ambassadors. (See Matthew 28:19-20)

Now we have entered the season of Lent when many Christians give up something as a way to honor God and prepare their hearts to receive the risen Lord.

Lent is the forty day period which precedes the celebration of Christ’s resurrection.  It reflects the forty days Jesus spent in the desert in prayer and fasting in preparation for ministry.  After those forty days, he began preaching in Galilee. (See Matthew 4:1-11)

May this season be especially precious to us--a time of intentional personal reflection, committed to prayer and quiet times with God.  While we think about Jesus and His life and ministry, we can focus our hearts and minds on Him and away from those other things that choke out God’s truth.

We will be refreshed and strengthened and more able to manifest the kingdom of God hidden in our hearts.

The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good tidings to the afflicted; ... to give them a garland instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the mantle of praise instead of a faint spirit; that they may be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he may be glorified. Isaiah 61:1a,3 (RSV)

Daffodil opening in the rain from www.mybeautifulthings.wordpress.com

Thank you for visiting Write Moments with God.  I hope you will enjoy the season of Lent.  I appreciate you.
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5 comments:

  1. Marissa DodgenFebruary 24, 2015 at 2:59 AM

    I notice my contentment being tested when I drive through fancy neighborhoods or look at new cars. Stuff like that. If I steer clear of those areas, it's not an issue. But I definitely notice a difference in my heart if I'm not diligent about it.

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  2. Rose Chandler JohnsonFebruary 24, 2015 at 5:28 AM

    I understand completely Marissa. Thanks for your heartfelt response. Blessings.

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  3. KayMFebruary 25, 2015 at 1:47 PM

    Thank you for giving me something to think about. I appreciate your words.

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  4. Rose Chandler JohnsonFebruary 26, 2015 at 4:55 AM

    Thank you Kay for taking the time to write. That means a lot to me.

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  5. Mrs HakataMarch 3, 2015 at 12:34 AM

    Thank you for sharing the knowledge that Christ has blessed you with, i enjoyed reading this and its given me something to think about. You are a wonderful writer :)

    ReplyDelete

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