| I do not know about you,
but occasionally I wake up in a different state than the one
I slipped off to sleep in. My body may stay at the same location
but at times my mind and spirit go on vacation. Some trips
are better than others.
I have visited the "state of confusion" on several
occasions. It is a noisy, unnerving place. The "state
of worry" is a place I sometimes find myself in. It is
known for the large shadows that are cast upon everything.
The "state of dis-ease" is a far too familiar place
as I have not merely journeyed there on occasion but was forced
to stay there under very unpleasant circumstances for long
periods of time.
I once traveled from a "state of hope" to the "state
of hopelessness" at the speed of light. Fortunate for
me, I brought my "road map" so my best Friend Jesus
could help me find a route that took me to "the state
of grace…leading to glory."
The "state of forgiveness" is one of my favorite
places. It is warm and the Son shines brightly. The "state
of joy" is a fun place where hearts are light and free.
Of all the states I have traveled my personal favorite is
the "state of total surrender." It is a beautiful
place with an atmosphere that can only be likened to paradise.
There is nothing but glory there with brightness streaming
out from every nook and cranny. If I had to make a move and
stay there forever this is the state I would choose.
Unfortunately, we do not always get to choose what state
we are to visit or even live in. The circumstances and situations
of life move us from here to there. God’s will and purpose
plans trips for us as well. We have a non-refundable ticket
and must go.
Paul the apostle made a very powerful statement when he said,
"I have learned whatever state I am in to be content."
I believe that we need teaching in this area so that we can
learn this principle ourselves.
Godliness with contentment brings great joy. That means that
if we are content regardless of confusion, worry, disease
and so many other negative places we find ourselves in that
we can experience joy regardless. Knowing that the joy of
the Lord is our Strength we can be assured that we will gain
strength and provision for future travels as well.
Today, what state did you wake up in? Are you able to find
a sense of contentment there knowing that your Father has
your entire lifetime mapped out in a manner that will bring
glory and honor to Him? Let’s take a lesson from Paul
and choose to be content no matter where are journey leads.
One state always leads to another and we have the best traveling
Guide at our side. May our "travels" be experiences
that bring us closer to Our Lord Jesus Christ!
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