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Devotional for April 25, 2020

The Essentials

 "He provides food for those who fear him; he remembers his covenant forever." (Psalm 111:5 NIV)

 A bit of a personal note: I greatly enjoy outdoor activities. As mentioned in a previous devotional, I am especially blessed to live somewhere where there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities within a half an hour of where I live. I especially enjoy hiking, and, lately, whenever the weather has been favorable, and my schedule allows it, I take the opportunity to go for long hikes. And, one thing that happened yesterday when I went hiking was that I got some sun on my skin. For me, this is a good thing: I have noticed, as I have gotten older, that I definitely need certain nutrients, especially Vitamin D. Vitamin D comes from the sun, and I have noticed that when I am unable to get essential nutrients from the sun, it affects my mood. Therefore, I thank God for days, and seasons, when the sun shines even brighter, I am able to be outside, and be able to get plenty of Vitamin D, because Vitamin D is essential for me to be able to have a better mood, and be able to engage the activities of life with even more enthusiasm.

 There are all sorts of things which we have, and we receive, that are essential. However, do we always recognize them as being essential? There are many things we have, such as food, clothing, and shelter, which we recognize we definitely need, and are a bit more obviously essential. However, there are other things, that perhaps we take for granted, such as sunlight, rain, vitamins, friendship, or even a kind word or smile that are essential - we need them just as much as everything else. They are essential because without them, we would not be able to keep going. A rain shower brings as many happy benefits as a kind or encouraging word. Time out in the sun can bring as much joy as watching our favorite TV program. These are all things that are essential - without them, we would not be able to keep going, or enjoy life the way we do. Everything, from its largest to minutest detail, is a gift from God, which He provides for us to enjoy and live.

 The greatest blessing of all is one by which we definitely live and can see God's love and care, but which we do frequently take for granted: Jesus' death and resurrection. Because of Jesus' death, we have forgiveness of sins, and freedom from sin and the power of the devil. Because of Jesus' resurrection, we have the promise of eternal life, a life which will be greater than anything we experience now. Jesus' death and resurrection also guarantees that we have free and full access to God's power and provision at all times, meaning that He loves and cares for us so much that He freely gives us everything we need to live and enjoy life here and now. Everything is a gift from God, everything is essential, and everything we have is a wonderful blessing. Let us thank God daily for all the essentials He gives us.

 Dear God, thank you for providing me with everything I need, and even more. Help me to recognize that everything I have is a gift from you, and to receive it with thankfulness from your hand. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

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