Distracted by Prospects and Promises

As I've been working through "What God Wants You To Know" by Stacey Thacker, I've done a lot of reflection using the S.O.A.P. method in my journalling.  While I wrote this down in my journal a few days ago (August 8th), I've been feeling the pull to share it with all of you.  So, here's what God's putting on my heart:

Scripture

Jeremiah 29:11-13 (ESV)
     "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare (peace) and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.  Then you will call upon me and come and pray with/to me, and I will hear you.  You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart."

Observation

So many people only read verse 11 that describes how God has a future (and it's good) for his people.  But, they miss what he's trying to teach us.  Yes, we will have good futures according to his purpose; but, only if we call out to him, and pray to him, and seek him with all of our hearts.  If we seek things other than him, we are missing the point.

Application

As the prospect of this new job grows, (my final interview with this school is actually today 8/11) I need to keep my focus on God.  Through him I have my strength.  Through him I can accomplish anything.  I can't do it without him. Therefore, I need to seek him first.

Prayer

Dear Lord, I am easily distracted by prospects and promises of a good and peaceful future.  Thank you for your gentle reminder that it can only truly be achieved with our help and guidance.  Please help me seek you first and praise you always, Amen!

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My questions to you:

 - Have you also been struggling to seek God first?

 - What ways has he shown you to constantly remind yourself of his love, power, and grace?

 - How does it feel for you when you finally overcome a struggle in your life, only with God's help and guidance?