Focus

Stop and thank God for being present with you today. Ask for God’s guidance as you hear God’s voice through scripture and the writer.

Read

Reflect

These scriptures that talk about not worrying about tomorrow or making plans for the future are difficult for me. I was raised to think about tomorrow. I was raised to prepare for any possible problems. Always be prepared. But I have also made the error of forgetting about the present moment.

I learned this lesson when I was in college. I wanted to go on a trip to China. It was an opportunity to teach English to elementary school students. It would have been for the whole summer. I could have done some good, built relationships, and explored a part of the world I had never seen.

I chose not to go to China that summer because I felt I needed to work and make some money for the next semester. In hindsight, because I only made $5.60 an hour and could only work 30 hours a week because of other volunteer responsibilities I made a smooth $800. after taxes. I thought was $800 worth missing out on a once-in-a-lifetime trip…absolutely not.

I should not be arrogant about tomorrow, either by boasting or by doubting. When God gives us opportunities we should not shut the door automatically because of what might happen, and neither should we run headlong with no care for the future. In faith and by prayer we make thoughtful decisions on what God would have us do and concern ourselves with.

Pray

God, help me to enjoy the blessings you give me, without the fear of what might happen. I entrust myself to You, believing that You have good things in store for me. Amen

Go with God.