I have a friend who has determined to spend the second half of his life with intentional joy. He woke up one day and realized that he spent more time worried than at peace, consumed with what he had to accomplish and the ensuing feeling of possible failure. His change of attitude would be more understandable if his circumstances had made life easier for him . . . but that is not the case . . . in fact quite the opposite . . . his work and responsibilities have increased and he has a greater load to carry than in the past. Regardless of the pressures, he chooses on a daily basis to have the attitude of joy.
From my perspective . . . his joy is not only contagious but reveals an underlying message. How is it possible to intentionally live beyond daily pressures and problems?
First, we must determine the message of our intentional living. Our message to others is more in how we live than in what we say. The author, John, wrote that another John was discussed in the meeting between Jesus and the Jewish leaders:
If I testify on my own behalf, my testimony cannot be verified. But there is another who testifies on my behalf, and I know that the testimony he gives on my behalf is true. You sent emissaries to John, and he testified to the truth.(John 5:30, NAB)
John, known as John the Baptist, lived out the message of Christ, intentionally preparing the way for Christ, God with us, to be revealed to humanity. John was known for the way he lived as well as what he said. His words were emphasized by his daily decisions and overall lifestyle.
Intentional living requires guidance and empowerment from God:
The Lord will give you the bread you need and the water for which you thirst. No longer will your Teacher hide himself, but with your own eyes you shall see your Teacher, While from behind, a voice shall sound in your ears: "This is the way; walk in it," when you would turn to the right or to the left. (Isaiah 30:20-21, NAB)
Intentional living is a daily process.
The Lord will give you bread and water: Seek God to provide the capacity and ability to intentionally live out the message.
Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me will never hunger, and whoever (John 6:35, NAB)
Whoever believes in me, as scripture says: 'Rivers of living water will flow from within him.'" (John 7:38, NAB)
This is the way; walk in it: Our daily choices reveal the way we go. God always makes a way through circumstances . . . choose to go where God goes . . . count the cost . . . pick up your cross . . . follow Christ.
Then he said to all, "If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me." (Luke 9:23, NAB)
Learning with you to intentionally live out the message of Christ.
Shalom,
Kerrie
(All devotions written by Kerrie Palmer ©2008 All Rights Reserved)
