Until I was able to put aside my feelings and then simply trust the finished work of Jesus, the peace of God always seemed to elude me.  As I learned to change my focus from myself (which was always a view of my failure and one more promise to "do better"), and focus on the beauty of my Jesus, I found a great liberty in my salvation I did not know was possible!  I discovered that the great work of the Spirit is to teach us to "know Him better." Faith comes when one engages this 'heavenly' pursuit.

     As I was walking this morning, the following two verses rose up in my spirit while praying and giving thanks for the goodness of the Lord.  "I will sing unto the Lord as long as I live; I will sing praise to my God while I have my being.  My meditation of Him shall be sweet; I will be glad in the Lord." (Psalm 104:33-34)

     It really does come down to a decision!  David said, "I will.... I will sing praise to my God today, while I have opportunity.  I choose to focus on Your goodness, Lord.  My meditation of Him shall be sweet.

     The word meditation in the Hebrew text is a 'contemplation,' an 'utterance'... (Dictionary says: To ponder, to converse with one self and hence aloud).  It is to declare, meditate, muse, pray, speak, talk (with).  Notice that this communication brings gladness (joy) of heart.  Remember that... "the Joy of the Lord is your strength." (Nehemiah 8:10c)

     If you are longing to have victory in your life everyday... become a PRAISER!  You will discover the power of the risen Christ is a present reality which will lead, guide, and direct your life.  What could be better than this, in a world filled with such confusion that few know the real purpose for their being.  God is searching for WORSHIPPERS!  Jesus said, "The true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth; for the Father seeketh such to worship Him." (John 4:23)

Until next time,    

Pastor Tommy Grimes