Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.
If you ask what does this passage have to do with believe/faith/trust/commit/obey, my answer is "Everything, this is practical faith. This is where the rubber meets the road. This is transformation."
Years ago, Betty and I were listening to a series of lectures on prayer during a trip to see family and one was by Dallas Willard. One of his recommendations was to commit this to memory; which we did for the last few hours of the drive. I have never regretted that time spent for this has stood me in good stead ever since. (Well, I do get a bit out of order when I get to the 'whatevers'.)
Lord, lead into a fuller understanding of the transformation that results from obedience to this Scripture. Let it permeate my soul so that the aroma of the joy of the Kingdom is evident to all.
Today's readings in the Psalms:
Morning: Psalm 29
Mid-day: 119:161-168
Evening: Psalm 104
Voices Together is available as an annual daily devotional and can be purchased at theFellowship Of Ailbe bookstore.
