Did You Get Up Today Determined, friend?

If you work in the fire department, you go to work knowing that you can expect to see and experience bad things today. From serious injuries to deaths. 

I know that's a crass way to start, but it sums it up. I don't know when we started to believe that our lives should be perfect. Maybe when we started to spend more time on social media—this world—than in the real world for which we were created.

We're surprised when we're bumped into roughly on the street and can't just re-record that moment the way we would if we were making a video for Instagram. 

We’re hurt when we're sitting at the table with our family, and we get a derogatory comment or look from a family member. In real life, there's no filter we can put over it. We get these moments hardcore.

"...In this world you will have trouble…” (John 16:33 NIV). In other words, "In the world you will encounter sorrows and great difficulties..." I’m sure you can identify.

But God would not be our loving God if He left us alone with this hard truth, friend! He wants to give us everything we need!

"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.” (Ephesians 6:10 NIV). 

Just as anyone who works in the fire department must first decide, "Okay, it's not going to be easy, but I REALLY WANT THIS, this is my mission!", so it also takes your conscious decision to come to terms with the fact that life isn't all fun and games. We must decide to stand up in God's strength and move ahead! Because yes, this is our mission!"

"Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place.” (Ephesians 6:14 NIV)

The one who lives resolutely also experiences God's power in everyday life!

 You are a miracle!