First Step

First Step

4:28

First Step

“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand,” John 10:27-28, NIV.

I find the challenge in most things is the first step. Whether it’s starting a book report, spring cleaning, or doing one’s quiet time, the first step is the most difficult for me.

Do I obey or justify? Do I sit and ponder or move into action? These are my distractions and my temptations. Yet, once I take that step, to open the book, or pull out the vacuum cleaner, it breaks the spell that holds me in place, and I am free to do what I need to do.

This morning I parked my car and readied myself to go walk and pray. I usually enjoy this part of my day, but today I sat, unenthusiastic. Not sad, just “Huh, I really don’t want to get out of my car."

But God graciously reminded me that this was what I needed to do. So, I opened my door and walked away from the car. Only God knew what awaited me down the road….

And Jesus showed up.

As I walked, I had questions for Him. What happened to your earthly father?

What happened to Lazarus?

Why did You curse the fig tree?

This one the Holy Spirit actually gave me some clarity on, and I was thankful.

Spending time with my Savior is something the enemy does not want me to do. Distractions and lies eagerly greet me when I sigh, and think, “Do I have to go for a prayer walk today?”  All the enemy wants is a wedge in the door to faith.

I know I am to say yes to my assignment. I also understand the temptations of man. Mine are like many others, “I want my own way.“ Sometimes that presents itself in laziness, other times greed. But when I draw near to God, and He me, the liar flees, and I am then free to hear and obey my Savior.

This morning’s time with Jesus was as sweet as they come. I felt secure, at peace and ready to learn. After all, the Holy Spirit was sent to instruct and lead us into doing what is right. And He’s good at it.

Are you able to take your first step of the day? I hope so.

Father,

Thank You for wanting to spend time with us. Thank You, though the journey was long getting here, You helped me arrive.

I’m so grateful for Jesus’ sacrifice allowing all who seek You to obey You, find You. Thank You that You desire for us to become Your children. Thank You that You treat us as children whom You enjoy. You are not an absentee Father, MIA and uncaring.

I pray for those family members who struggle trusting You because their own earthly father wasn’t around or didn’t care. Help us to learn to trust You in everything. We know You care.

I love You.

Amen.