Inwardly Focused Forward!

What characterizes our focus? As we look at what is going on around us in our immediate community and in the world at large, how are we impacted? Are we encouraged or distressed? Are we hopeful or horrified? Then as we consider our own life, how do we feel? Are we encouraged or anxious? Are we energized or worn out? Do we feel like we are winning or defeated?

The difference in perspective can boil down to the focus of WHAT GOD IS TO US! WHAT CHARACTERIZES OUR RELATIONSHIP TO HIM? Do we have a focus of INNER STRENGTH based on FAITH IN HIM that compels us to move onward in life in spite of challenges?

In Isaiah we read. . .
"(11) For the LORD spoke thus to me with his strong hand upon me, and warned me not to walk in the way of this people, saying: (12) 'Do not call conspiracy all that this people calls conspiracy, and DO NOT FEAR WHAT THEY FEAR, NOR BE IN DREAD. (13) But the LORD of hosts, him you shall regard as holy. Let him be your fear, and let him be your dread. (14) And HE WILL BECOME A SANCTUARY and A STONE OF OFFENSE and A ROCK OF STUMBLING to both houses of Israel, a trap and a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem. (15) And many shall stumble on it. They shall fall and be broken; they shall be snared and taken.'" ( Isaiah 8:11-15 ESV)

Do we fear what the world fears or do we view God as still ultimately being in control? Has God and His Will become a SACTUARY for us in the midst of life's challenges, or has it become an obstacle or stumbling stone in the path we are trying to take? Depending on WHAT GOD IS TO US and the RELATIONSHIP WE HAVE WITH HIM will determine the manner in which we go through life; stumbling, falling, or PRESSING ON IN THE INWARD STRENGTH that comes from STEADFAST FAITH in Him and the assurances He has provided.

May FAITH IN GOD remove the fear that would otherwise be in us. When others see the greater sense of peace in our life that encourages us to keep pressing on, they will know our FAITH IN GOD is as real as He Himself is. Let us continue walking on with Him!

Have a great day LIVING IN THE SHELTER OF GOD'S LOVING CARE!
Carl

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