Devotion: I Got it Right

Hebrews 13:16- And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased. NIV

Thinking back on Labor Day last year, although I rested from physical exertion it was not a day of rest. I worked hard to be what God would have me be, and I kinda felt like I got it right.

When I visited my mother in the nursing home that morning, I entered the room with a smile and warm greeting. I brought fixings so Mom and I could enjoy a Labor Day picnic.  I boosted the tech’s self-esteem by giving her a genuine compliment about her beautiful eyes. I praised my granddaughter later in the day for visiting mom on a holiday.

All these things I did amid a time of frustration. I ended up driving back and forth to the nursing home three times that day, a forty minute round trip. In spite of my best efforts, my mother was obstinate, refused to leave her room for our picnic, complained about the meal, and had a long crying spell.

I was exhausted when I laid down that night, but I had the sweetest sense of peace and joy. It wasn’t because I was good enough or strong enough to handle the frustrations on my own. It was because the Lord, walking with me, offered His hand and I took it, allowing Him to lead and work within me. I received strength and patience for the day. As I drifted off to sleep, I felt I’d done my best to please Him, to live close to what He called me to be that day. It felt good, like I kinda got it right.  

Loving Father, as You look for people after Your own heart, sometimes we feel we’re not the right person for the job. Help us keep our eyes focused on You and perhaps You’ll show us something we hadn’t seen in ourselves, and the joy of Christ will be magnified in our hearts and in our lives. Thank You. Amen.