The Upper Room Devotion for Friday, March 1, 2024, was written by Susan Thogerson Maas of Oregon.
Scripture
1 Happy are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the Lord. 2 Happy are those who keep his decrees, who seek him with their whole heart, 3 who also do no wrong, but walk in his ways. 4 You have commanded your precepts to be kept diligently. 5 O that my ways may be steadfast in keeping your statutes! 6 Then I shall not be put to shame, having my eyes fixed on all your commandments.
Psalm 119:1-6 NRSV
Author's Thoughts
My husband, Gary, and I enjoy morning walks. We enjoy the fresh air, vent about problems, and make plans for the future. when I walk daily, I am eager to get out and move - and I have more energy. But on days when the weather is bad, I tend to hunker down inside, letting Gary walk alone. The longer I avoid walking, the less enthusiasm I have for it.
My prayer life follows a similar pattern. When I simply offer a few quick prayers during the day, my prayers tend to skitter along the surface like a flat pebble across a lake. However, when I spend the time in longer, deeper prayer, I become more eager to reach out to God again. Prayer then becomes a regular and meaningful part of my day.
We all have places in our lives where we could improve spiritually. I find it helpful to set a specific goal - for example, reading a chapter of the Bible each day or praying for a set amount of time every morning - then finding an accountability partner to hold me to it until the habit becomes a natural part of life. Morning walks can improve our health, but walking with God enriches the soul.
Pastor Anthony's Thoughts
Friends,
I invite you to reread Susan's reflection, and be encoraged knowing God continues to walk alongside us.
Author's Prayer
Faithful God, thank you for all the ways we can draw closer to you. Help us to walk daily in the presence of your Holy Spirit. Amen.
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