Wake Up Calls

Once again, last year reminded me that adversities are really opportunities for God. It began with my leg in a boot for ten weeks healing from a torn Achilles tendon, and then Deb being hospitalized for a week as she began a three-month battle with cellulitis. Despite these and other challenges, last year was full of joy, experiencing God’s presence and power through these trials, as we rested in Him and received His grace. (James 1:2-8) Looking back, God used these tests as a catalyst to start God’s Present Ministries!

Last year’s problems were really wake up calls and opportunities to abide in Jesus. “Wake yourself up and look to God. Build your hope on Him. No matter how many things seem to be pressing in on you, be determined to push them aside and look to Him.” These words are from one of my favorite devotions by Oswald Chambers in “My Utmost For His Highest.” It is entitled “Am I Looking To God?” in which he comments on the verse “Look to Me, and be saved…” (Isaiah 45:22) It always reminds me to focus on God, rather than my problems.

Encouraging and equipping men to live after God’s own heart is my passion! Together, let’s look to Jesus, and encourage others to abide in Him too, so that we may experience both storms and smooth sailing as opportunities for Him to show us His glory.

Keep on abiding,

Steve