S.O.A.P. 30 Day Challenge – Day #27 Monday, February 27, 2024 “Take the Long View.”
S. Numbers 21:4-5 (NIV) “They traveled from Mount Hor along the route to the Red Sea to go around Edom. But the people grew impatient along the way; they spoke against God and against Moses, and said, ‘Why have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness.’”
O. It says the people grew impatient. I suppose it’s possible that they may have started out ready for what God was going to do. But as they traveled, the grew impatient. Perhaps like some of us on long trips, “are we there yet?” We just want to arrive at our destination – and I must admit, I like things to happen quickly too.
However, they (and we too) needed to have a long view of life and ministry. Serving God is not a sprint – it’s more like a marathon. It’s not a rah, rah, rah, here we go, hyped up time of serving God. Rather, it’s taking the long view – being patient and trusting God as He often seeks to transform us through processes to become more like Him.
A. I’m glad for those who are excited for what God is going to do – yet I know God will often direct us to take the longer route so He can transform us to be more like Jesus. That being said, we all need to take the long view of what God is doing and wants to do in our life and ministry.
P. Thank you Lord for your word today. Holy Spirit, fill me and guide me to be patient, taking the “long view” of life and ministry and trusting you every step of the way to not only help me reach the destination but when I do arrive, I’ll be more like Jesus. In Jesus’ name.
