From The Crucible (by Pastor Linda Pugsley)

In Colossians 4:2 (NIV) we read, "Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful." And in 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NKJV), "In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." Ah…sounds so peaceful an existence! Just get up each day and float through it with the Lord. It’s not fantasy, folks, for it can be done.

I struggle, though, because I tend to bolt into each day like a racehorse out of the gate! Devotions, writing, and then helping others, studies, phone calls, visitations, meetings, sermon prep, coordination of events, church services and then the common tasks of a personal life. The drum beats on and on, faster each day.

God knows that most of our lives run along that course and that is why He gives us the rich wisdom in the Scriptures. For all the racehorses out there, you need to buckle down at slowing down! Rest in the presence of the Lord, all day, every day. It doesn’t mean you work less, it just means you work more efficiently and you’ll encompass the priorities set by God and not by those around you.

By remaining in the awareness of God’s presence and thanking Him for your blessings, you’ll bring joy and gladness to your heart. That helps push back the negative thoughts and disappointments inherent in the rush of daily life.

I don’t mean that you walk around in robes all day humming repetitive sounds. No, you’ll be able to walk with vigor and purpose by letting God take charge of your day. We racehorses struggle in taking one step at a time, but it really is the best course of action to win the race and get across the finish line. Slow down or go down…your choice! Endure the fire…it’s producing pure gold!

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