Good Times.
Psalm 46:4
4 My heart is breaking
as I remember how it used to be:
I walked among the crowds of worshipers,
leading a great procession to the house of God,
singing for joy and giving thanks
amid the sound of a great celebration!
This is quite true for many who used to be on fire for God and have now either fallen away or have been laying low in their spiritual walk. Sometimes, it's awesome to remember how "everything used to be" when we were really on fire for God. It's good to reminisce and keep in mind what we did and how that felt. It's always an encouragement to remember the good times we've had. The encouragement though is not just remember the good times, but to go back to how it was - and maybe even move beyond the good times to make it the best times, this time around. Think back about the good ol' days of amazing time with God, awesome devotion times, crazy fired up praise and worship - jumping up and down and not caring about everyone else, and just get back to that feeling - the motivation of seeking God face to face. Don't just reminisce, get back there!
Yes, I totally agree with the Psalmist - there were times when I was really fired up for God that no one can stop me to just be passionate about Him; "un-embarassed" to go crazy for God. Where did that go? It's still here, but is somewhat tamed down. I will reminisce and get back to that - but this time, better or more so, make it the best times. I will not allow anything around me to taper down my passion for God. I will instead, move forward and go beyond how it used to be. More passion, more energy, more motivation, and more love for God - more than ever!
Lord, thank you for this reminder. Help me to not be consumed by thoughts of this world - how it can satisfy my short-term needs, but rather to look past them, moving beyond how it used to be. Help me to remember what it was like when I first knew You. I want to go back to that, but better. I know You want to mold me and shape me to be like Your Son Jesus, take all of me. Remove any of my worries, my wants, and my desires and conform it to Your best. Thank you Lord. Guide my every thought to always be in line with you. Thank you for everything! In Jesus' name, Amen.
