“I didn’t go to the Bible study because I was ‘dogsitting.'” Actually she said she was “taking care of the babies,” but both she and Jerry knew she was referring to her caring of two small dogs. Admittedly, adorable dogs…pampered dogs.
I wasn’t there when she said it, but Jerry told me about it later. I just stared as he relayed the message, and a kind of sadness settled over me. For the one who said that to him is really a sweet and loving person, who in many ways has begun to reach out for God, and who has made great strides in ridding her life of negative and harmful habits. I feel sympathy for her…sympathy because just yet it appears this very sweet lady may need a wee adjustment in the setting of her priorities.
But how can I judge? For often I am guilty of the same thing. Oh, it is not revealed in such flagrant demonstration as the missing of a Bible study because I don’t want to leave an animal alone. Rather it is highlighted by my limited amount of Bible reading, my pitiful measure of energy given to witnessing to other people and my small effort at intense personal prayer. God help me to improve my own life, to delve more deeply into the ways of God, to perfect my own spirit. Have patience with me God, please extend anew your grace and mercy. For without them, I am destined for damnation.
I love the words of David in Psalm 27:4-5…and this is truly my prayer.
“One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to enquire in his temple. For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion; in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock.”
I do desire my Lord. I do want to seek after Him. I do want to dwell in His house and behold His beauty.
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God Things 
Mom’s words: I feel the same way. I feel like I’m on the verge of “breaking through,” but don’t quite measure up, but I’m still striving!
Tom says: Sorry we missed you last week and were not able to get on the computer to comment on your blog. We had an exceptionally busy week w/mom’s granddaughter. I liked the title of this devotional—EVER LEARNING. I, of course thought of that verse about . . . ever learning, never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. You, at least, know the truth Sis. Buxton! You know, I think we’ll always feel we need a deeper, closer walk with the Lord. I always have to make a “to do” list so I DO the things I think are really important. I wouldn’t say, as some do, that “I’m a slave to my to-do list,” but without it, I can be scattered. With it, most days I get things done, feel somewhat fulfilled, and thank God at the end of the day! There are those days, like last week, where the unexpected happens and things don’t quite go as planned. It, of course, won’t be perfect till we’re OVER THERE!
Hi Tom…and also to your sweet Mom.
“To do” lists are great–especially when a chore is finished and with a bold black line can be marked off.
Just as we schedule errands and jobs, it would we wise to block out periods of time to communicate with God and to do His bidding. We feel so much better when we operate in His presence. You’re right of course–we’ll never get quite perfect down here…just have to keep working at it.
Bless you both.
Thank you for your comment. It was quite encouraging. I have started blogging again because I believe the Lord is asking me to be more faithful with the creative writing gift He has given me. It’s proving to be a difficult venture, though, as I’m realizing that gift is much in need of development. Anyway, I enjoyed your blog. I’m always glad to see people on a real pursuit of God encouraging others to join them. Blessings!
Maranda
Maranda, write one word at a time. Be faithful and consistent. Don’t wait until you have something profound…just write, in the most excellent way of which you are capable.
Let’s stay in touch.