NOVEMBER 2009 DEVOTION
Your Choice
Yesterday I had to deal with...a virus. Not H1N1 or even the "normal" flu (so thankful) but a virus on one of our computers. Said computer is presently at the "computer doctor" because my antivirus program could not "heal" the virus without destroying my operating system. After I got past the irritation of unwanted pop-ups, freezing screens, and "virus threat" warnings that could not be "cured," I realized I had to make a choice. I could either continue to battle and fret and punch the keys on my computer and get madder by the minute, or I could take steps to relieve the mess, take deep breaths and talk to Jesus.
Thankfully, I chose the latter, and let me tell you, it makes for a much better day!
Too often circumstances develop that try to rob us of joy, peace and all things good, but I have learned we always have a choice in these situations. God echoes this sentiment multiple times in His Word.
In Deuteronomy 30, the LORD is helping the Israelites to develop a healthy lifestyle. He gives them large amounts of information and direction and then lays before them a challenge saying, "...I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live..."
This challenge is my tweet for today! Each one of us has the opportunity to "choose life" in every situation we encounter throughout the day. What will you choose?
As I pondered my computer virus I couldn't help but think of the people that spend their lives writing those destructive programs. They have chosen death. They have chosen a path that leads far away from God and life and all things healthy and good. I pray for them, as I pray for all of us: that we will choose life - that we will choose to live each day in a way that brings encouragement, life, and the goodness of God to all around us. What will you choose?
Let's pray. Father, we choose You! Please forgive us when we allow the "deadly" and "lifeless" situations around us to steal from our lives. Help us each day and in each circumstance to purposely choose life and bring much glory and honor to You. In Jesus' Precious Name we pray. Amen.