What Door Will You Choose?

November 21, 2016

Christmas is only 33 days away and a new year fast approaching with only 40 days to go.

I always look forward to a new year.  I like the look of my new calendar on my desk.  Although I have an iphone, I still prefer the old fashion desk calendar with a month at a glance.  The first thing I put onto my new calendar are birthdays and special occasions that I need to be reminded about.  I just love this part!  But the new year also brings a time of reflection.  I look back the previous year and see what I've accomplished; and I ask myself have I been obedient to God's calling or have I squandered my time?

Some times as I look over month after month, I see obedience, then disobedience.  My face goes from smiles to frowns.  This past year I facilitated several bible studies for women.  Each one was a wonderful experience for me.  I met some great women eager to study God's Word.  Looking back over each study I see a common thread, the word "choices" comes up often.  We can choose to do something, like obey God, or we can choose not to.

God's Word tells me "Keep on asking and you will receive what you ask for.  Keep on seeking and you will find.  Keep on knocking and the door will be opened to you.  For everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened."  Matthew 7:7-8  That is effective praying, something Jesus tells us to do often.  But I have to choose if I am going to be an effective prayer warrior.  Will I give Him the best of my time, or give Him my leftovers.

Now a new year is approaching and I want to choose God's way over the world's way.  I want to be an effective prayer warrior, I want to be a true disciple of Jesus.  Matthew 7:21-23 tells me how to be one.  I want to build my life on a solid foundation - no cracks, no wobbling (Matthew 7:24-27) Jesus tells me how to do that.  For 2017, I don't want to be known as a Christian as that word is loosely used now and has so many variations and definitions.  I want to be known as a FOLLOWER OF JESUS!  But every day I must choose - Jesus' way or the world's way.

Now that I proclaim it boldly, I know the spiritual warfare will come; but my plan of action is to keep my eyes focused on Christ, cling to His Word and put on the armor He has for me in Ephesians 6.  After all, who is mightier or more powerful than my God ?!