1 Peter 5:8 (Amplified Bible)
Hello Friend,
Last week I wrote to you about the need for change in order to be healthy. I hope you took this Word seriously. Most of us neglect our bodies by not eating correctly, forgetting to exercise, working too hard or not enough, or by not getting enough rest, relaxation and sleep. As another year begins, aging well is on the forefront of my mind. I’m not getting any younger, but I want to feel good and enjoy each remaining day.
In the Third Letter of John written to his dear friend Gaius, the very first thing the writer says is, “I pray that everything may go well with you and that you may be in good health” (verse 2). This, my friend, is my prayer for you. In the Amplified Bible this same scripture reads, “I pray that you may prosper in every way and {that your body} may be well, even as your soul keeps well.”
Is your soul well? When used in this context, your soul is your inner self, your personality. Your body will be well “as your soul keeps well.” Our soul needs to be well balanced. Peter goes on to say, “Be vigilant and cautious at all times; for that enemy of yours, the devil, roams around like a lion roaring {in fierce hunger} seeking someone to seize upon and devour.” What does the devil hope to destroy? Your joy!
In Genesis we read that God worked (created the world) and enjoyed (sat back and viewed his handiwork and said, “Ah, it is good.” And on the seventh day, God rested. I believe God was giving us right up front, at the beginning of His word, a formula for balance in our life. We all need satisfying work, time to play and be joyful, and a time for rest. Is your life in balance? Is God calling you to change in some area to receive more of his joy? Verse 10 says, “God of all grace {who imparts all blessing favor} will complete and make you what you ought to be, establish and ground you securely, and strengthen, and settle you.” But God won’t force his will upon you. You get to choose your path. Do you sincerely desire balance or are you secretly enjoying your suffering?
Prayer: Lord, I need your guidance. Speak and I will listen.
Little by little, I’m wobbling less,
Linda
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