The week is beginning, and we had the weekend, but did you get fueled up to go or tired out and now look for energy to move forward? How will you fuel the fire? Will it be something that burns up quick and keeps you searching for more? Will you build it up so that it will start and last the long night? What will you use as the source so that you can get it started and it will keep you going to the finish?
The Right Source to fuel the fire:
- Ezekiel 21:32 says “You will be fuel for the fire. Your blood will stain your own land. You will not be remembered, for I, the LORD, have spoken.” This verse speaks of being consumed by fire, which could be interpreted as a metaphor for the trials and tribulations of life. It reminds us that we must be careful about the fuel we choose to feed our inner fire.
- Psalm 73:26 says “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” This verse reminds us that even when we feel weak and our hearts are heavy, God is always with us and can give us the strength to persevere.
- Isaiah 40:31 says “But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” This verse speaks of the power of hope and faith in God to give us the strength to keep going, even when we feel like we can’t.
- Philippians 4:13 says “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” This verse reminds us that we are never alone, and that with God’s help we can overcome any obstacle.
Fuel the fire that will last:
The world and the Word of God can both fuel the fire within us, but the output varies. The world offers temporary pleasures and quick fixes that can provide a short burst of energy, but ultimately leave us feeling empty and unfulfilled. In contrast, the Word of God provides a source of strength and inspiration that can sustain us through the long race of life.
As Denise Renner writes in her article “The Fiery Effect of God’s Word in Your Heart,” the Bible is like fire when it is allowed to work inside our hearts.
“It purifies our consciences, renews our minds, illuminates our spirits, and drives away darkness.” “The amount of spiritual fire we have burning at our core is directly related to how much of God’s Word is planted in our heart.” “When we read the Bible with faith, its supernatural power is unleashed and our hearts, will, thoughts, emotions, and memories are all touched by God’s power as if by fire.” “The life in God’s words awakens us to receive a greater measure of God’s presence into our lives in the divine process of transformation.”
In contrast, the world offers a different kind of fuel for our inner fire. It offers temporary pleasures and quick fixes that can provide a short burst of energy, but ultimately leave us feeling empty and unfulfilled. As the Bible says in 1 John 2:16, “For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world”. These things may provide a temporary boost, but they do not offer the lasting strength and inspiration that comes from God’s Word.
In conclusion, while the world and the Word of God can both fuel the fire within us, the output varies greatly. The world offers temporary pleasures and quick fixes that ultimately leave us feeling empty and unfulfilled, while the Word of God provides a source of strength and inspiration that can sustain us through the long race of life. 🙏
chat.bing.com provided me this insight
So let’s make sure we fuel the fire with the right stuff that will help things get better.
Today’s Verse of the Day:
The LORD is my strength and my [impenetrable] shield; My heart trusts [with unwavering confidence] in Him, and I am helped; Therefore my heart greatly rejoices, And with my song I shall thank Him and praise Him.
Psalms 28:7 AMP
Firstly, let’s be the dads who lean in because we know that God is our strength and impenetrable shield! Secondly, let’s be the dads whose hearts trust with unwavering confidence in God! Therefore, let’s be the dads whose hearts greatly rejoice and who since songs of praise to Him forever and ever!
How can we put today’s verse of the day into practice so that we can live our lives to the full, allowing God to fuel the fire of our lives, ensuring we can endure the race and finish strong for the sake of our wives and kids and their needs? What can we take from it to help us live up to God’s calling on our lives to be the dads so that He will receive the praise, the honor, and the glory in Jesus’ name?
Applications of Psalms 28:7 that will help us fuel the fire with God’s Word, Will, and Way for the sake of our wives and kids:
- Start the Day with Prayer: Begin each day by acknowledging God as your strength and shield. Dedicate time in the morning to pray for wisdom, guidance, and the strength to face the challenges of the day.
- Meditate on Scripture: Take time to meditate on verses from the Bible, including Psalms 28:7. Reflect on the meaning of God being your strength and shield, and let His Word shape your mindset for the day.
- Express Gratitude: Throughout the day, cultivate a spirit of gratitude. Acknowledge God’s presence, blessings, and the assistance He provides. A thankful heart fosters a positive outlook and strengthens your connection with Him.
- Trust Unwaveringly: In moments of uncertainty or difficulty, remind yourself of God’s faithfulness. Trust in His plan for your life and family, knowing that He is in control, and His ways are higher than ours.
- Encourage Your Family: Share the joy and confidence you find in God with your wife and children. Be a source of encouragement, reminding them of God’s strength and faithfulness in all circumstances.
- Live a Worshipful Life: Let your actions and attitudes be a continuous expression of worship. Whether at work, home, or in your community, let your life reflect the trust and confidence you have in God.
- Create a Family Devotional Time: Establish a routine of reading and discussing the Bible together as a family. Use Psalms 28:7 as a focal point for discussion, allowing each family member to share insights and prayer requests.
- Lead by Example: Demonstrate the principles of unwavering trust and joy in the Lord through your own actions. Your children will learn valuable lessons by observing how you navigate life’s challenges with a steadfast faith.
- Serve Others: Look for opportunities to serve and help others. Being a source of support and encouragement to those around you aligns with the heart of God and contributes to the well-being of your family and community.
- Reflect and Rejoice: At the end of each day, reflect on the ways God has been your strength and shield. Rejoice in His faithfulness and goodness, and express your gratitude through prayer and praise.
