Every night as Earl and I prepare for bed, Earl
places my Bi-PAP mask over my nose to help me breathe oxygen-rich air as I
sleep. When he lays down he positions his C-PAP mask over his nose and turns
the machine on to help him breathe deep and oxygenate his blood.
All our lives we have inhaled and exhaled with
hardly a thought—taking breathing for granted. With these therapeutic measures,
we’ve discovered afresh how oxygen truly sustains our body. Without it, our
minds become confused and disoriented. Our bodies weak and tired.
When I take deep refreshing breaths to fill my lungs
with oxygen-rich air I feel the strength return in my body and my mind clears.
This is often the way we relate to God. It’s easy to
take the breath of God, the Holy Spirit, for granted. Shallow Bible reading and
irregular Bible study allow our Christian faith to become lethargic and our
relationship with the Lord wanes.
Sometimes we need “therapeutic measures” to enrich
our faith. Most Christian churches have a multitude of faith-enriching
activities. Whether you like large or small, young- middle- adult- or seniors,
men’s or women’s Bible study groups they’re all available. Local, national and
international mission opportunities abound for growing stronger in our faith.
You can read daily devotionals or follow a Bible
reading plan. Read, watch or listen to stories of Christian faith, tribulation
and triumph. Recently I watched a video of Billy Graham preaching in Baton Rouge,
Louisiana in 1970. The era and location was different but God’s word is
unchanged.
By actively pursuing ways to enrich our faith, we
awaken each morning fresh and energized—ready to share the gospel.
“Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance
and gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith” (1 Timothy 6:11, 12 NIV).
In Christ,
Berta
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