Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. (Psalm 90:12)
I finally purchased my own copy of Jesus Calling. As I shopped at my nearby Christian bookstore, I spied it. I picked up the very nice leather-like bound copy and read the tag-line of the title: Enjoying Peace In His Presence. I was in the midst of a series of messages on “Continuing the Work of Jesus…Peacefully.” Knowing I needed to continue growing in peace and peacemaking, I laid my money down—and I haven’t regretted the decision.
I love how a phrase can cut straight to the struggle of my heart. This morning I found a nugget that stopped me.
I designed time to be a protection for you.
I had been washing dishes, getting breakfast, and having a running dialogue with God about the frustration I was having with feeling excessive stress, and how it was impacting my commitment to healthy eating.
As I walked past the dining room table, I glanced down and saw the devotional. Picking it up, I turned to today, and there it was.
I designed time to be a protection for you.
I have a large new responsibility coming up next week. I’ve been feeling anxious. Doubting my ability. Performance anxiety.
My head dropped. I was doing it again. Worrying about a tomorrow, about what might be, about things I have no control over. Frustrating myself today. Trampling all over my daily goals, commitments, and opportunities by stressing about tomorrow.
Time. Time is a gift from God.
Provision. God provides for me on a “daily” basis. Only gather enough manna for today. Give me this day—today—my daily bread. Today is the day of salvation.
God, forgive me for failing to recognize you wise provision and creation. Especially, when it comes to time. Help me to trust you for all my tomorrows and to live more completely in my today. Thanks. Amen.
Pot of Manna 