Continue

​Lacrosse is a rapidly growing sport in our community.  Last year was the first year of its inception in Tigard for 6ththrough 8thgraders.  Stephen got involved and is playing again this year.  I’m enjoying helping coach his team.  I’m quite amazed at how quickly the boys have advanced in their skills.  And I’ve made a not so surprising observation.  Those players who carry their sticks around constantly and work on throwing the ball and catching it against any available wall or with other teammates, are far more proficient than those who only pick up their sticks when required. 

Meditation
Colossians 2:6,7--So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him,  rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. (NIV)
 
As followers of Jesus, we are implored to “continue to live your lives in him.”  As I contemplate the concept of continuance the question arises, “How do I remain faithful?”  
1. Jesus must have my heart.  If He is not first in my love, foremost in my priorities, then He will be squeezed out by other passions and I will set down my cross to carry other treasures.     
2.  Jesus must have my eyes.  God’s Son calls out, “Follow Me!”   I will bear fruit when my purpose, goals, objectives and vision are centered on obeying the Lord on the road to heaven because my faith remains in Him.
3.  Jesus must have my mind and spirit.Two things root and build up my mind, character, attitude and emotions.  First, I need faithful time mastering Scripture (hearing, reading, studying, memorizing and meditating).  God’s Word builds in my life the wisdom I need to persevere, resist the enemy, say “no” to my unruly flesh and “yes” to the leading of the Spirit.  Second, I need regular fellowship with other believers who also are intent on continuing in Him.  The Holy Spirit empowers and gifts God’s children so we edify each other. 
4.  Jesus must have my ears and mouth.  As I learn to listen to Him and seek His will, worship Him and to share what is on my heart, He deepens my faith, guides me in how I should live, reassures my spirit and meets my needs in accordance with His plan.  
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Every sinner understands the value of continuing when it comes to power, prestige, winning and wealth and will forsake everything to accomplish on earth what cannot be maintained.  The wise saint understands the value of continuous abiding in Christ because He is omnipotent, the Name above all names, the Wearer of the Victor’s Crown and the Creator of life and matter who promises eternal reward and fellowship to all who follow Him!  Something to think about . . . . in reveration!   
 
Inspiration
The reason some of us lack assurance is because we do not continue in what we have tested, something has made us slack off.—Oswald Chambers in As He Walked
 
©2006 Daniel York  ARR. Reveration is the weekly devotional ministry of First Cause.  If you would like to receive these devotionals go to www.firstcause.org and click on the “Click here to receive weekly devotionals” box.  Unlimited permission to copy this devotional without altering text or profiteering is allowed subject to inclusion of this copyright notice.      
 
Ecclesiastes 12:10-The Teacher sought to find delightful sayings and to accurately write words of truth.  (Holman CSB)