[05/21/2023 “teEn-MAIL”]
Where? What? When? Which? Why? How? All these are expressions of wonder. They relate to life in the here and now as we ponder what is to come. We are not always in the know. So where do we turn? Are we turning in faith to the one Who does know?
Abraham Lincoln is quoted as stating, “I have often been driven to my knees by the sincere conviction that there was nowhere else to go.” This reminds me of the beloved hymn “Where Could I Go?” by James B. Coates (1940) with the recurring refrain “Were could I go but to the Lord?” in relation to life’s varying circumstances and situations.
As Paul urged Christians at Ephesus not to lose heart over what he was suffering (Ephesians 3:13) being a prisoner for Christ, he went on to state. . .
“(14) For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, (15) from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, (16) that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, (17) so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith — that you, being rooted and grounded in love, (18) may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, (19) and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. (20) Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, (21) to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” (Ephesians 3:14-21 ESV)
Yes, that is where we are to turn our focus. Going down to our knees our focus is lifted upward toward the Father Who has ability beyond even what we can imagine! Let us trust God’s power to continue working both on our behalf and also within us to strengthen and guide us through whatever adversity we may face. But rather than prayer only being prompted by panic, may it become an unceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17) part of our daily life!
Have a great day ALWAYS TURNING TO THE LORD!
Carl
