Christian Devotionals and Scripture Applied to Everyday Life

Have you ever received a gift and found out later it wasn’t for you? I have.

Sometimes good things get messed up! Recently, I took a walk in our local park. I had been sitting at my desk for a number of hours, and my tight muscles suggested I take some time to stretch. As I strolled along the winding path by the creek I quickly realized I needed to pay careful attention to my steps. Ahead of me were at least thirty-five geese lazing in the grass, and strewn around was evidence that they had made this place their home. The grass and path were covered with hardened and fresh droppings making hardly any room for walking. This beautiful setting was certainly messed up!

I hate to admit that sometimes I do. I will have a heavy burden on my heart and will set aside a time to talk to God about it. The tears flow as I express my utter helplessness in a difficult situation. I thank God for His faithfulness and communicate how I am trusting Him to come through. I rise from my knees feeling like a heavy burden has been lifted. And then . . . I begin . . . to try and answer my own prayers.

Whenever you get one thing under control it seems that a number of other things pop up to take its place. This happens in all areas of life especially in dealing with sin.

In 1956 Johnny Cash wrote and recorded the song I Walk the Line. The famous lyrics express the determination of a previous womanizer, to remain faithful to his true love.

Everyone has down days. You know, the kind of day when nothing goes right. First thing in the morning you stub your toe on the shoes you kicked off by the side of the bed the night before. Then you find out the milk is sour after you already poured it on your cereal. As you run out the door to rush to an important meeting you remember your car is low on gas. These and many other more distressing occurrences can sometimes cause feelings of defeat or failure that follow us through the day. But isn’t it interesting that these “down days” are often softened by a single word of encouragement.