Theme:   A Surprising Key to Getting Unstuck - Gratitude versus Entitlement

This eDevotional was written by a volunteer from Timberlake Church. 

READ: I Kings 9:4-5; Psalms 51; 2 Samuel 12:13

THINK: In listening to Ben’s message on Sunday, I started asking myself if I am stuck. What does it feel to be stuck? How did I get here? What do I need to do to get unstuck?

In my Christian walk I have definitely felt spiritual highs and lows. I am consistently drawn to King David and his walk with the Lord, one moment he is simple shepherd boy whose faith could move mountains, then years later he is king and stumbling left and right. What did David do to get “UNSTUCK”? 

He asked for forgiveness.

We are not entitled for God’s forgiveness but we as Christians have it and for that I am grateful. I find the best way of getting unstuck is not to get stuck in the first place, which is easier said than done.  Here’s what has worked for me:

1.)    Prayer time every day – if you forget one day, just start up the day after.  If you forget 5 days, just start up the day after, God will never count the days but will love to see you come back to him. Ask for forgiveness; move forward after you’ve stumbled.  Don’t let one fall cause you to fall ten more times over the same rock.

2.)    Study his Word – if that means bible reading- great!  If that means another form of growing spiritually through a Christ – centered video, growth group, book on Christian living or theology, etc… go for it!

3.)    Grateful heart – Being grateful for all the things God has blessed us with today, sharing that with Him and others is awesome and fulfilling.

4.)    Do something for others – offer to cook a meal, watch a friend’s dog, mow a neighbor’s lawn, a simple act of kindness … let the love of God overflow your life into others.

5.)    Consistently attend church – it’s hard to get stuck when you are making yourself available to others who love and care for you and actively worship God together.

DO: Looking forward to 2012, I know that we all make mistakes; we make goals that we can’t live up to, but just know that God is a loving and forgiving God and all He asks for is for your heart and the best effort possible- not perfection.

PRAY: Dear Lord, I pray that you will allow me to live for You in 2012. Grow me closer to You this year than ever before and make me into the person You know that I can be. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.