These are a few of our SOAP notes from today’s reading. We encourage you to read and journal on your own first, then join us in conversation about what God revealed to YOU today. Click HERE to go directly to the daily reading if you wish.
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Craving Peace | Jill Terry
S~ For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace. Romans 8:6 (NAS)
O~ The vast majority of the world is seemingly obsessed with material items and feeling good in the moment. Far too often, it seems most people are more concerned about their possessions and desires rather than having lasting peace. The desires of the flesh last only a moment but have eternal consequences. A truly satisfying life is one concerned with eternal joy not earthly possessions.
A~ I do it too. I focus on what I want instead of remembering that I have all that I need. I am fortunate to know that life is more than possessions, it is about knowing Jesus and being blessed with the peace only He provides. After far too many years of chaos and struggle, I crave the peace found only at the foot of the cross.
P~ Thank you Jesus for Your sacrifice so that I am able to soak up Your peace. I desperately want this for my boys. I love You. In Your name I pray. Amen.
God’s Child | Kelley Deases
S~ The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. Romans 8:16 (NIV)
O~ Gary Thomas’ book entitled Sacred Parenting is one I often refer to and recommend, as its words really resonated with my momma heart. In it, the author delves into some of the profound lessons we can learn about God’s heart through the exercise of raising our own children. We experience a whole new concept of love and grace and pride and anguish and disappointment and sweet elation and agonizing heartbreak (sometimes in different seasons; sometimes all at once) as we learn what it is to give birth to, train up as best we can, and launch a child God has blessed us with. And this is only a tiny glimpse of God’s affection for us, whom He fashioned form the dust, as was His good pleasure to do, and desires healthy relationship and communication with us (much like we desire to have with our children).
A~ My eldest son, who is getting married in less than two months, is facing disappointing news right now. He applied for a particular program through his university this summer, which seemed like a perfect fit for him and him for the program. He would be paid to compile and compose a research project in his course, Biblical and Theological Studies. Beyond the academic challenge, this position pays well, allows him to work alongside a respected professor, would look great on his resume as he is applying to seminary schools, and would allow him and his new bride access to campus housing for the summer months, which is much cheaper than off campus (especially in Chicago!). He found out just yesterday his proposal was denied.
As his mom, I think I feel as crushed by this news as he is. I never want my sons to have to experience heartbreak or rejection. But this verse reminds me Thomas is not only my child but God’s child as well. God holds every tear and knows even the sorrow we can scarcely put into words. But He also knows the big picture, and while this opportunity seems “perfect” in our eyes, God, in His sovereignty, sees another route for Thomas. Maybe there are other lessons he needs to learn, or other opportunities we don’t even know about yet. Whatever it may be, this is the time for him to trust God’s goodness even in the face of disappointment and uncertainty. And for his momma to do that trust thing as well.
P~ Father, Thank You for being a good Father to me and to my children. All the time. No matter what.
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