2/24/04 Our Father, we thank you again for the opportunities this day brings each of us. Cause us to use them wisely – to share our good fortunes with others – to value those things You would have us value and to accept each other with patience and understanding. Amen
“Does this bring me joy?” If the answer is, No, then some current voices say, Toss.
That may work for weeding out my hutch of assorted fancy glassware and collectibles. I have not fully convinced myself it is worth the time.
But, today, I see dad’s prayer calls me to ask God what to value…not whether or not it makes me happy. That will indeed help clear the cobwebs off doo-dads, collectibles, and assorted “treasures” I clutch.
That makes sense. My Bible study work today routed me to a Hebrew word, chuwl (Strong’s 2342). Part of the lexicon explained that this word used in PS 37:7 is to wait patiently, to be strong or firm, to be in travail, to twist, to writhe.
Is it just me, or does your idea of “waiting patiently” involve writhing?
Yet, the Gesenius’ lexicon goes on to say, “verbs that have the significance of binding or twisting are applied to strength.”
What happens when we give birth?
So back to asking God what to value, and to help me release the strong hold/stronghold that I clutch.