Tag Archives: developing good habits

Rushing Ahead in Life Without God’s Help

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3tktwH1un0A

Are you in a hurry to get to no where?  Do you comment on drivers who make your daily commute a stressful experience?  If so, perhaps you are trying to rush ahead in life without God’s help.

Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth! – Psalm 46:10

It’s ironic how much difference spending 15 minutes with God can make in a person’s day.  Whether its reading a chapter of the Bible, following a devotional or time spent in prayer, this effort spiritually prepares individuals for their day.  While things may fall apart around you, the Holy Spirit uses the knowledge you gain from a quiet time to develop perseverance.

In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. – Proverbs 3:6

Unfortunately, this year I’ve been eager to rush ahead in life, often without God’s help and guidance.  Subsequently, 2015 has achieved lackluster results.  If I’ve learned one thing, leaving the house without the Lord has left me more irritable, less productive and not the person I want to do.  Therefore, the next time you feel like rushing out the door, slow down, make time for God and trust in the Lord for the day at hand.

by Jay Mankus

 

Modern Idols of Nations

Footbaal, Basketbaal and Basebaal?  Idolatry involves cultism, devotion and zeal for a pastime.  When any hobby get’s out of hand, obsessions can lead to a veneration, turning into a form of worship.  Priorities and time allocation often reveal where a human heart lies.

The idols of the nations are silver and gold, the work of human hands. They have mouths, but do not speak; they have eyes, but do not see; they have ears, but do not hear, nor is there any breath in their mouths. Those who make them become like them, so do all who trust in them! – Psalm 135:15-18

This allegiance is nothing new.  Developing a well-rounded personality is beneficial, yet idols influence individuals as nations rise and fall.  Whether religion is a fad, trend or life long pursuit, the powers of darkness will persuade some to delay, postpone or quit their journey called faith.   Thus, peer pressure sways the weak toward to idols of nations.

Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. – Colossians 3:5

According to Jesus, there is a direct correlation between one’s heart and idols.  “Those things you treasure will permeate into your heart, Matthew 6:21.”  Its no wonder that King Solomon urged the Jews to guard their hearts, Proverbs 4:23.  Therefore, to avoid the same fate of fallen saints throughout history, 1 Corinthians 10:1-6, follow the words of Deuteronomy 28:1-3.  When quiet times with God become a habit, escaping the idols of nations can be achieved.  May your life be filled with prayer, meditation and worship.

by Jay Mankus