Day 1

I could tell a long tale, relating all the events that have lead me to this day, but if I were to do that it would surely require such a long post that I would loose your interest before I was even half-way done. To summarize it, I was brought short by the fact that though I claim that my relationship with God is the most important one in my life, I do not act as if it is. If someone is important to you, you schedule time to spend alone with them. Your actions will verify that what you say is true. My actions have not been telling God that He is the most important being in my life, so I am setting out on a mission to show Him by my actions that I want my words to be true and that I want Him to always be the most important aspect of my life.

Today is Day 1 of 40. In the next 40 days I am committing to give God the first part of every morning. My plans include studying His Word, devotional reading, prayer, and scripture memory. I already can tell it will not be easy. In fact, a part of me was half-way regretting this choice when my alarm clock went off this morning. That is the half of myself that I am out to overcome. Each day I intend to record something that stood out to me about my time with my Father and share it with you for two reasons. One, I need accountability. Two, perhaps something that God is using to encourage me might also encourage you.

I covet your prayers during the next 39 days as I seek to "know Him more." It will not be easy, but by the grace of the Lord, and in His strength I walk forward.


Day 1: August 29

"Let your gentleness (graciousness or forbearance) be known to all men The Lord is at hand."

Philippians 4:5

O Beloved of my soul,

This do I desire:

Faith for the impossible,

Love that will not tire.

Jesus, Saviour, Lover, give me

Love for the unlovable,

Love that will not tire.

O Beloved of my soul,

Yet again I come;

Give me cords of love to draw

Many wanderers home.

Jesus, Saviour, Lover, give me

Love that knows nor strain nor flaw,

Love to lead them home.

~Amy Carmichael

As I was reading God's Word this morning I was cross referencing some verses and was lead to Philippians 4:5. Right away I knew I would claim the verse as my special help for today. Later as I was reading through my devotional book by Amy Carmichael, Edges of His Ways, I read the poem above. I began to pray, Lord let my gentleness be known. Let me be gracious and forbearing. May others see You in me. Let them see the "Love that knows no strain nor flaw" let them see the Love that will "lead them home."

If you have done or are doing a 40-day journey to know God more, I would love to hear from you!