Devotional Thursday

Good afternoon to you all! I must admit that it wasn't until I had a few moments in the car this afternoon that the Lord brought to mind the fact that is was Thursday, oh my, where has the week gone. In His timely fashion, I was previously things through some details about a Spring Tea we are hosting at Journey Church. It actually will take place in the afternoon, a high tea time - how appropriate. In the same token, only an hour earlier, I had a chance to stop and visit with my dear friend Amanda. She just so happened to hand me this delightful devotional called, "Woman of God, Moments of Grace", something she just so happened-upon, and graciously thought of me. Don't you just love when God blesses you with tremendous friendships! Enjoy!

Loyal - Tea

loyalty: the quality of being loyal, faithful in allegiance

It was three o'clock in the morning and there she was again! The tags on the collar of our dog. Cassie, a large German Shepherd, jingled in the darkness outside my window. I found comfort in the occasional hoot of an owl and the sound of crickets chirping. But the jingling was specials. I snuggled under the covers with a smile, feeling very protected and very loved by my loyal sentry.

We had bought Cassie into our home several months before. She arrived as a tiny puppy peeking anxiously out of my husband's coat pocket. In just months, she had grown into a 90-pound dog! Her self-imposed mission in life, besides chasing cars on our dirt road and exploring woods behind our house, was to stand guard, to protect us.

As each day would draw to an end and darkness began to settle, Cassie would begin her guard duty. Every hour, on the hour, she would inspect the perimeter. A well-worn path around our house gave evidence of Cassie's hourly marches. As dawn appeared, Cassie would end her vigil. What a loyal and faithful friend!

In a far larger sense, the eternally important sense, each believer enjoys the love of Christ, our faithful friend and brother. We are loved, cherished, and protected by the One who would give his life for ours, someone who did give his life for ours! His love and loyalty will never end. Jesus walks with us through the dark valleys of our questioning, stubbornness, disappointment, and despair. Still, his allegiance, grace, and commitment never waiver. He never grows tired. He will never leave us or forsake us.

Jesus has promised to guard and shield us. No matter what happens, he walks beside us to guide, help, and comfort. In times of joy and times of trouble, our Lord treasures his relationship with us. He invites us to spend time with him, as we back in the warmth of his friendship.

Will we reciprocate? Will we respond by offering back to him our loyalty and allegiance in return? Will we live to honor the One who died for us?

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9