The Porch

In Psalm 63 David describes his thirst and longing for God. It's not something we have to try for -- our desire for God is already in our hearts whether we know it or not. And while some seek to fulfill that desire through money and success, ultimately God is the only one who can satisfy. When we find Him and grace through Jesus, that satisfaction pours out of us through praise and telling others. We have to allow ourselves to desperately cling to God who sustains and satisfies us.

Taking a look at Jonah, we see how not to react to God's grace and how we should react to grace as believers. Jonah tried to run from the presence of God even though he was given specific instructions from Him. How often do we decide that our way is better and fight against what God wants for us? Or decide, like the men on the boat with Jonah, that we can work our own way back to God? It only makes it harder for us. But when we trust in God, who gave His Son for us, we come to know His love. We then respond by sharing grace with everyone around us. How will you react?

In a world of extreme selfishness, we're called to be extraordinary servants. In Matthew chapter 20, Jesus uses the parable of a vineyard owner to show us that selfishness robs us of many things, and ultimately, true greatness.

What makes you, you? Where do you find your identity? If it’s in your accomplishments, mistakes or earthly desires, you're looking in the wrong place. In Philippians chapter 3, The Apostle Paul shows us what it means to recognize our true identity.