Daily Journal: 1 January

A Bag of Buts and Burdens

Each day begins a-new and we have something to learn, something to tuck into our carry-bag.

Wisdom, freedom, victory, joy, change, love, learning.

Our heart is our carry-bag. To grow and change for the better, we can't keep a bag of buts and burdens. If we do, how can we collect God's victories?

"I praise you Lord, but..."

"I would thank you Lord, but..."

We cannot carry praise in our heart and mix thanksgiving along with our buts and burdens any more than we can mix makeup and toothpaste. We have to choose.

Choose today what it will be, and commit to it this year. Then see what the Lord will do.

Remember the things God has taught us before and carry them with us. We need to call them to mind and hide them in our heart. Think on them. Steep in His Word like tea, and walk out the beliefs we profess. Ask God what He would teach us each day. Write it down. Recite what we know about the Lord. Meditate on His nature. This will refresh our soul and change our approach to life.

Lamentations 3:22-23 (ESV)

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.

Psalm 118:16-17 (NIV)

The Lord’s right hand is lifted high; the Lord’s right hand has done mighty things!” I will not die but live, and will proclaim what the Lord has done.

Colossians 3:2 (KJV)

Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.