“Jesus paid the price for our eternal salvation, but our quality of life with God and our spiritual health are primarily up to each of us. This isn’t always easy, and it requires effort on our part. Effort is not striving for perfection; rather it is a deliberate posture of the heart that says, God, I want to know you more, whatever the cost.”- Heath Adamson
“You also, be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.”- James 5:8 (ESV)
Heath Adamson concludes Chapter 3 of The Sacred Chase as he issues this caution. We invite the slow death of compromise into our lives when we engage in the convenience of excuse. And we justify doing whatever it takes to get ahead because we fear being ordinary.
However, Heath observes, God points things out in our lives through the Holy Spirit to invite us to experience greater spiritual freedom and release. Not to discourage us or punish us. Because God loves us enough to tell us the truth. And, He loves us enough to get us through our problems. Mr. Adamson continues:
“The key is this: to understand that your true self is in Christ. Self-awareness apart from Christ will only lead to discouragement and feelings of inferiority. Knowing that you are in Christ (Colossians 3:3) means you have biblical self-awareness, which is looking at yourself through the eyes of God.”
Hence, as James 5:8 exhorts, we need to establish our hearts – literally, to plant them securely. Above all, the author underscores, it’s possible to plant our heart in God so that we flourish and bud – even in wintry seasons. Furthermore, as we walk with God, sometimes we win even though we fail to finish first. Instead, we take time to slow down and notice something is amiss.
In conclusion, Heath encourages:
“When we fall down, God is right there to make sure we know that we don’t run alone. Sometimes we just need to be reminded that God comes looking for us when we’re having a hard time on our journey.”
Today’s question: What Bible verses enrich your quality of life with God and your spiritual health? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “The delivery system for our divine invitation”
