by Gina Brummett | Jan 11, 2017 | Devotions
We are in the middle of prayer emphasis week at Southwest Assembly of God, and the theme Scripture we’ve adopted is Galatians 6:2. “Carry each others’ burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
Some time back, a couple of verses from the old testament about idolatry grabbed my attention: Bel bows down, Nebo* stoops low; their idols are borne by beasts of burden. The images that are carried about are burdensome, a burden for the weary. They stoop and bow down together; unable to rescue the burden, they themselves go off into captivity. (Isaiah 46:1-2)
In these verses, Isaiah described the burden of idolatry. In contrast, we read and consider our great “burden bearer”, the One true God in three persons – Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
He daily bears our burdens (Psalm 68:19) and invites us to cast our care on Him (Psalm 55:22 and 1 Peter 5:7). And as His hands extended, we followers of Christ help each other bear the load of life’s troubles through acts of kindness, words of encouragement and fervent prayer!
I’m grateful that the “load is lighter” because of my burden bearers – my Lord and my Christian brothers and sisters! May God be praised!
*Bel, the chief deity of Babylon, and Nebo, believed to be the god of learning, writing and astronomy, could not keep Babylon from being destroyed.
by Gina Brummett | Jan 6, 2017 | Devotions
Happy New Year!
Wait a second; what happened to 2016? All I know is that I just blinked and it was over! Maybe it’s because I am getting older- nope, I don’t like the last word; let’s go with wiser. (Much better.) The idiom “time flies when having fun” is a mixed bag for me. Regardless of what I am doing it never ceases to amaze me how quickly my schedule fills up, whether it is preparing for youth group, doing visitations or spending time with my wife. There is always something to do and all these things are important.
However, I am reminded of the verse found in Deuteronomy 5:12 “Observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy, as the Lord your God has commanded you.” I believe it is easier to continue what we are doing like the Energizer Bunny instead of taking a day to rest. This is so important and crucial that I desire to instill boundaries and live in those margins, together with my wife. I remember growing up and hearing individuals talking about going after the “American Dream” and now recognize that, instead, I should be going after God’s dream as the spiritual leader of my home.
How do you balance all of life’s demands?
by Gina Brummett | Jan 4, 2017 | Devotions
This week I’ve been eager to be about putting away the Christmas decorations and organizing my home. I’ve also started a new year of “Read it Through in 52”, and as I’ve read about the order in creation, I’ve been inspired to copy this part of God’s character – order, rather than chaos. I am appreciative that God is both creative and orderly.
My prayer is that God will help me “clear the clutter” that would block creatively praising and serving Him. I’m asking the Holy Spirit to guide me in making my home a beautiful and peaceful respite for my family and the guests we welcome.
I’d love to hear your thoughts about maximizing your space, schedule and spiritual life!
