What To Do?

"So now, O Israel, what does the Lord your God require of you? Only to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to keep the commandments of the Lord your God and his decrees that I am commanding you today, for your own well-being." - Deuteronomy 10:12-13

Dear Friends in Christ -

On this day, even as the sun rises and the birds sing here in Shelton, it seems that well-being is threatened in so many parts of the world by diaster and war. Radioactive meltdown continues in Japan. International "intervention" in Libya has been authorized by the UN. And in the midst of this we have our own troubles. Economic woes, illness, running arguments with family members and neighbors.

In all these stresses and struggles, how do we get our bearings? By following the basic rules of His road. The things God asks of us don't ever change: to love Him, to obey His commands.

When troubles - small and big - arise, we're tempted to think that we need revised instructions, a "new and improved" program of action. But what we really need is trust His Way even more, to focus on doing what God calls us to do. If we neglect this emphasis, we often find ourselves wasting energy complaining about the actions of others or criticizing our leaders, at home or abroad. Sinking into depression or negativity drains our own energy and the energy of those around us.

In staying close to God through prayer and obedience, we gain strength and courage for whatever lies ahead. Our own well-being is enhanced - enough that we often find we have more than we need, enough to share.

Faithfully staying close,
Janet+