20 For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God. 21 Yes, they knew God, but they wouldn’t worship him as God or even give him thanks. And they began to think up foolish ideas of what God was like. As a result, their minds became dark and confused. 22 Claiming to be wise, they instead became utter fools. Romans 1:20-22. NLT
All of us have a desire to praise and worship something; it is what we were created to do. By default, our souls will praise, be it a graven image, a philosophy, riches, science, or another human being. Could it be that we are our own idols?
Praise God, the Bible tells us, even if, and especially when, you have had your worst day ever.
As you examine your spiritual journey, you will find evidence that God was with you then and is with you now. God has carried you in His arms when you couldn’t go on, and His promise it to always carry you then, now, and in the future. Praise God, and hour hearts will fill with thankfulness and gratitude.
Excerpt from Strike the Match, Light the Fire, by Kathleen Evenhouse,
Writing With Vision, Pella IA, 2021, pg 55
I need the same reminder, so I have it written on a shell next to my bed.
light sources: daylight moonshine
When the sun is bright in the sky—
too radiant to look at without damaging my eyes—
does the moon still reflect its light?
Surely it does on the other side of the world
where the inky darkness of night
covers the earth with shadow.
But I don’t look for the moon during my daylight hours
to wonder if its shine is waxing or waning
for I am reveling in the rays of the sun.
And so it goes in life.
In easy times—
when life feels under control,
when spinning through activities,
and all needs are met—
do I spend less time seeking God
who is my source of true light
and all my blessings.
Periodically, as night falls,
and I remember where my light comes from,
I fall on my knees and seek again
what I have been taking for granted.
His light is full
of grace and mercy
as he receives this prodigal child
with outstretched arms
and angel songs. Help me, Lord, whose light never fails to shine.
This little light of mine, I want to let it shine,
even in the daylight.
Kathleen S Evenhouse 