One Day At A Time

Living one day at a time is something we should all try to do. But what does that mean? A few years ago, I started thinking about this when I heard a sermon on living in the present. I started becoming aware of every time I caught myself either worrying about the future or regretting the past. I realized I did it a lot! Way more than I thought I had. So I began to make a conscience effort to “reign” in my thoughts every time I caught myself doing it. I prayed, “Lord, help me to surrender my life to you, one day at a time.” I remind myself to live in the NOW and enjoy God’s presence with me here every day. We need to live within the boundaries of today like the Israelite’s who had to collect mana one day at a time. They could not “store it up.” Let’s try to be content with what God has provided today. Let’s give thanks for our “daily bread.” Are you gratefully humble? Or do you hatefully grumble?

There is nothing wrong with planning but there is something wrong with worrying. While planning, we should keep our focus on the Lord and his authority. Keep in mind the possibility that he may have to change our plans for his purposes. If we stay flexible, then change won’t hurt as bad if it comes our way.

Sarah Young says in her book Jesus Calling, “To find joy in this day, you must live within its boundaries.” I know it is hard to do. The bible says in Luke 12: 22-24 “Consider the ravens; they do not sow or reap, they have no store room or barn; yet God feeds them, and how much more valuable you are than birds!”

When I catch myself worrying, I will re-focus on the Lord and remember He is with me, He knows me, He loves me, He takes care of me and He walks beside me every day. He is in control and He has good plans. Jeremiah 29:11-14 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you,” declares the Lord. So when we are tempted to worry, let’s pray instead!