Vital signs- Wednesday, September 2nd, 2020

“Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭4:16‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

When life gets hectic and there are so many people demanding your time, it is easy to forget about the things that matter most. As my calling in pastoring grew, the demands to meet peoples needs grew as well. Then, before my own eyes, the things that meant the most to me started to suffer. My relationships with my family struggled. My relationship with God suffered.

Through that process, God revealed sometimes busyness can be a means of hiding our negligence. My wife has been a huge reminder that when this happens, there’s forgiveness. Through this kind of love, I’m realizing despite my many distractions, unconditional love remains. When good pursuits get in the way of God's pursuits we only need to repent and turn back. God never stops pursuing us; and because of his steadfast love, restoration is possible.

Consider God’s words to Jeremiah. Imagine hearing him at the center of your neglected relationships asking, “What wrong did you find in me that you went far from me?” (Jeremiah 2:5). Now remember God’s faithfulness to restore trust and repent of being distracted from His love if you find yourself needing forgiveness.

Prayer: Thank you God for Your perfect love and for always pursuing me. As I fall short, remind me of Your grace and that restoration is possible.