Intentional Encouragement

“Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise, but as wise, making the best use of the time because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.” (Ephesians 5:15-17, ESV) When Paul penned those words, life was tough. “Ephesians” was among a group of letters Paul wrote from prison. While he had a number of years left to serve the Lord, he didn’t know that for sure, nor did he know what each new day would bring. He understood the truth of what he said very thoroughly. We must make the best use of the time because the days are evil. We must not be foolish but we must understand what the Lord’s will is. There are several connections my mind makes in reading these verses. First, I have 2 college graduates numbered among my 4 children (1 of them is about to finish her Masters). The girls are living in their own apartment and each holding down full-time jobs.  Our third just returned today for his final semest...

      I realize that the New Year is already a couple of weeks old, but I thought I'd share some thoughts with you about the importance of starting well.  I’d like to talk to you about good beginnings .   No matter how good the book is, if the beginning doesn’t start out "good," you are not likely to stick with it for the duration.   If the plot doesn’t look interesting in the teaser, you aren’t likely to spend your time watching the entire movie.   Even news casts have commercials to tell us what they will be talking about that evening.   Everyone wants to attract our attention at the beginning, so that we will pay attention through to the finish.      It is the beginning of another year and I believe that God wants your attention.   Possibly there have been some previews that He has shown you regarding this coming year.   Maybe they are exciting; you’re getting married…you’re going to become a grandparent...