Be Present: The Perfected Way By Lisa Tilstra

My first international move has now become two-month-old history.  It’s hard to believe.  Time goes by so quickly. 

That phrase is so cliché, and yet so true: Time goes by so quickly. 

How much of time rushing by is due to my impatience, though? 

How many times in the past few months did I think, “I can’t wait until this move is over”?  (A lot!)

Now that I’m here, how often do I find myself thinking, “I can’t wait until these first few months of adjustment are over”? (Repeatedly!)

If I’m not careful, I find I’m just wishing my time away.  And deep in my heart that is the last thing I want to do.  Life is too precious to wish away.

Our move to the Philippines has challenged me on many levels.  Summing up the challenges, though, it’s one main thing: staying present. 

Every day, and all that comes to pass during those 24 hours, is a gift.  Every moment I spent with family and friends before we left—a gift.  Each hour discussing plans and strategies with my husband—gifts.  Every opportunity to learn about my new home—a gift.
 
Even today, as difficult as it was, has been a gift. I have experienced myriad emotions—frustration, joy, bitterness, hope, excitement, anger.  I’m emotionally exhausted as the day ends and everything rationale says, “This was not a good day.”

And yet, when I pause, I see beauty, mystery, intrigue.  Today was a gift. 

Before I was born, GOD knew today. He knew my today. --Psalm 139:16 [my paraphrase]

In light of this truth, I’m humbled.  I stop and raise my eyes to heaven in amazement and wonder. This moment is my gift from GOD.  Tomorrow is unknown.  I’m already telling stories about yesterday.  Today—right now—this is it!  This is the best. 

Whatever is going on in your life right now—in this moment, remember, “It is GOD who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect.” --Psalm 18:32 [NIV]  GOD does not promise a perfect way.  He promises to make my way perfect.  Today, included.

It takes courage to keep both feet in today.   Will you join me in being present today?  Open your heart to receive GOD’s gift?  Embrace His design… His perfecting of your way.

Encounter:

• What are ways you rushing time away impatiently?
• During moments of impatience, what do you need to step into the present?
• When plans are not going as anticipated, how can remembering GOD is perfecting your way, help you stay present?

Encounter Prayer:  
Father GOD, You have created today as a gift.  May I open my heart to sense Your presence.  Give me glimpses of how You are perfecting my way.  Fill me with courage to stay present.  I commit this gift of time to You.
“Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun.  Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him.” --Psalm 37:5-7a [NIV]

Devotional by Lisa Tilstra.  Posted by A. Allan Martin by permission.