Don't Let Fear of the Storm Hold You Back

Daily Scripture Threshing for Monday, January 20, 2024

Today's Text: Ecclesiastes 11:1-6

Key Verse: Ecclesiastes 11:4 (ESV): "He who observes the wind will not sow, and he who regards the clouds will not reap."

The book of Ecclesiastes is a wisdom literature believed to have been written by Solomon to explore the human experience and the fleeting nature of life. As a wise king, Solomon shares his observations and insights on how to live a meaningful life throughout Ecclesiastes. In the verse before us today, he addresses the issue of procrastination and indecision, using agricultural imagery to convey the importance of taking action despite uncertain circumstances. Anyone who is overly cautious, waiting for perfect conditions, or who is distracted by potential obstacles or uncertainties before taking action will ultimately do nothing. Solomon says, such person "will not sow" and "will not reap."

God already indicated to us that the year before us is a year of exploits but we must understand that there are consequences for inaction. He (God) also warned us that it is going to be a delicate year in which we must act by faith in God and not be too concerned about the weather, otherwise, we will miss the opportunity to plant and harvest. On a stormy night in Birmingham, Taylor's hostess advised him to cancel a meeting because of bad weather. However, Taylor insisted on going, saying, "I must go even if there is no one but the doorkeeper."

Taylor's decision to proceed despite the unfavorable weather conditions led to a remarkable outcome. The meeting, though sparsely attended, was marked by unusual spiritual power, and half of those present became missionaries or supporters of the China Inland Mission. This teaches us the importance of taking action despite uncertain or unfavorable circumstances. As Christians, we are called to be faithful and obedient, trusting in God's sovereignty and provision regardless of difficult circumstances. Living in the West teaches us to observe the "wind" and "clouds" of life, but we must not let them paralyze us. Instead, we should master times and seasons so that they don't stop us from taking bold steps of faith, trusting that God will guide and empower us.

Action Steps: Learn to trust God and take action, despite the "weather" of life. Take action despite uncertain or unfavorable circumstances. Trust in God's sovereignty and provision. Look beyond immediate concerns and trust in God's plan, even when the future seems uncertain.

Quote for the Day: "Don't wait for perfect circumstances to take action; sow in faith and trust God for the harvest." (Simon Olatunji #quotablequote)

Let Us Pray: Dear Heavenly Father, please help me to trust in Your sovereignty and provision, even when circumstances seem uncertain. Give me the courage to take bold steps of faith, sowing seeds of obedience and service without waiting for perfect conditions. By Your grace, I will not be held back by fear or doubt, but instead, I will look to You as my Guide and Provider. Help me to focus on Your power, rather than the temporary challenges of the present — in Jesus's most glorious name. Amen.

____________________

Thank you for being part of this journey. For additional reading on today's meditation, read: Proverbs 3:5-6; Matthew 14:22-33; and Hebrews 11:1-40.

Read the Bible Through in One Year Plan: Job chaptes 5; 6; and 7.

Daily Scripture Threshing is a devotional guide written for free distribution and edification of churches, homes, and individuals. For inquiries, free counseling, or deliverance, please, write or visit: The Darling Bishop, 2321 S Beltline Rd Suite 144 Grand Prairie TX 75051 USA.

You can be a part of this great and free course through a one-time or recurring donation. To give through Zelle, use +1817-822-8441 or CashApp: $SimonOlatunji. Thanks and God bless you. Amen.

With all my love and prayers,

Rev Simon Wale Olatunji, Ph.D.

Your Darling Bishop (DaBishop)

Send | Share | Subscribe | Support