If you live in the greater Madison area, I would like to encourage you to join Steve Freitag or myself as we spend five weeks discussing the dynamics of spiritual freedom beginning the week of June 19. Details on my class here. Details on Steve’s class here (pdf).
Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God-children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God. — John 1:12-13
My 15-year-old daughter received some money from her grandmother as a gift for graduating from eighth grade. Money always gives us choices, and here were some of the choices that she had available to her. She loves to read; she could have used the money to buy a good book. She loves worship music; she could have used the money to buy a worship CD. She loves horses and tigers; she could have used the money to buy a poster or two for her room.
She could have done any of these or a hundred other things with her money, but instead she chose to do something completely different.
She took me on a date.
Why am I so blessed, that my teenage daughter would rather spend her money and time on me? I don’t have an answer to that, to be honest with you. I just know how good it felt to be honored by her. I know how I bragged to my friends that my daughter was taking me out. I know how much I enjoyed her company. As far as I’m concerned, my daughter is the best teenage girl in the world.
You and I are children of God. When we make sacrifices to honor Him, when we choose His company ahead of anyone else’s — do you think He doesn’t notice? Do you think He isn’t bragging to the angels in heaven? Do you think He doesn’t delight in your company?
God remembers everything. He knows your heart. He knows your devotion to Him.
Be encouraged!
Dwight
Dwight Clough is the author of four Christian books and is an active member of Lake City Church in Madison. This devotional is also available via email and you may review the archives back to 2002. Dwight and his wife Kim provide prayer ministry for inner healing / transformation and coaching in prayer ministry. He is available to speak to your group or church. To contact Dwight or Kim, use their contact form. You may also support their ministry.