Daily Reading: 2 Chronicles 9
Solomon reigned in Jerusalem over all Israel forty years. And Solomon slept with his fathers and was buried in the city of David his father, and Rehoboam his son reigned in his place. (2 Chronicles 9.30-31)
Devotional Thought: We were a bit nervous. Lana and I were returning to Bethel Church of the Nazarene for a morning service. It was our first such visit there after having retired as the pastor and worship leader of that wonderful congregation. The new pastor was in place along with his wife who served as the new worship leader. What would it feel like? What had they changed? Would we feel "replaced"? But what about Kyle and Stephanie, the new pastoral couple? How would they feel having us there?
Today's scripture says, "Solomon reigned [past tense] in Jerusalem." His time was over; his rule was complete. Solomon wasn't destined to reign forever. As is said, "All good things must come to an end." The same is true for us in our lives. We will not hold on to our positions and roles forever. Even if age doesn't "catch" us, like Solomon we will all one day sleep with our fathers in death. Then we will leave our places to those who remain. We need to hold loosely to the things of this life.
The older I get the more my roles change. Whereas once I was a guide and helper to my children, they have become helpers to me now - especially with all things technical! But, age isn't the only factor that brings change and transition. Growth and advancement will require us to leave some roles and embrace others.
What about you? Are your roles and responsibilities changing? Do not fret. Through it all, God is with you. He is transitioning you from glory to glory!
By the way, Pastor Kyle and Stephanie made us feel so welcomed and loved! We were nervous over nothing. That is how it is with change. Most of our anxiety is self-inflicted.
Prayer: Lord, you embraced change when you left the beauty and joy of heaven to come to earth's sin and sorrow. Instead of complaining or recoiling at the thought of change, help me to embrace the changes that come my way and to thrive in them, giving others confidence to change as well. Amen.
Psalm of the Day: Psalm 63:1-5
1 O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water.
2 So I have looked upon you in the sanctuary, beholding your power and glory.
3 Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you.
4 So I will bless you as long as I live; in your name I will lift up my hands.
5 My soul will be satisfied as with fat and rich food, and my mouth will praise you with joyful lips,
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