It Makes Sense to Anticipate
January 21
Some of my favorite Christmas plants to receive are those which include anticipation. Christmas Cactus, Paper Whites, Hyacinths, and Amaryllis.
As I was caring for a couple of these the thought hit me...God is waiting for us to bloom right where He has planted us. It may not be where we were yesterday or where we will be tomorrow, but there is purpose for us at each stop along life's way. We were designed to bloom and bring glory to God!
You may be the only person in the place where you are right now that can shine the light of Christ.
Nevertheless, each person should live as a believer in whatever situation the Lord has assigned to them, just as God has called them” (1 Corinthians 7:17).
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Father we thank You for the talents and abilities you have given us. May we anticipate with joy the opportunities that await us, through the equipping of Your Holy Spirit, to invest in others and bring You glory. We have learned in the past that blessing others causes blessings to bounce right back upon us. Your love and life processes are amazing.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
Nevertheless, each person should live as a believer in whatever situation the Lord has assigned to them, just as God has called them” (1 Corinthians 7:17).
Warren Wiersbe wrote:
"One of the greatest tragedies in life is wasted opportunity--not making the most of what God has given us. We came into this world with certain abilities, and when God saved us, He gave us gifts and the grace to exercise those gifts to help others, to build our own lives and to glorify His name....
God blesses us to make us a blessing. He planted the people of Israel in the land that they might, by their life and testimony, bear spiritual fruit, letting the Gentile nations know about the true and living God. He gave them an opportunity to show the other nations what He could do for those who would trust and obey Him. Instead...The Israelites compromised and sinned. So God had to cut down His vine and discipline His people.
God blesses us to make us a blessing. He planted the people of Israel in the land that they might, by their life and testimony, bear spiritual fruit, letting the Gentile nations know about the true and living God. He gave them an opportunity to show the other nations what He could do for those who would trust and obey Him. Instead...The Israelites compromised and sinned. So God had to cut down His vine and discipline His people.
Remember, God has planted you where you are that you might be a blessing. He wants you to take deep root. He wants you to bear rich fruit. And if you will draw upon His spiritual power, He will enable you to be a blessing. Bloom where you are planted and bear fruit to the glory of God and the enrichment of others."
