Like getting your coffee with an espresso shot…

I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love,

Ephesians 3:16-17

17 consecutive days of intercessory prayer makes (this) one ravenous.  I have done more seeking, studying, and praying about intercession since I started… that is its own blessing. 

my second and last morning cuppa

Today’s scripture and prayer for my husband is that his strength might be renewed despite busyness and over scheduling, unreasonable expectations and never enough time…and that the infusion might come directly from The Father.  Hmmm…being tapped in to an unlimited source--like getting your coffee with an espresso shot. 

We are a weary bunch.  It’s not just my husband for whom this Word and this prayer were sent.  My crew is weary and cranky…but that is not the end of the story.  We are weary, and cranky, but not without hope, or a solution.  Today is the first day of Lent.  It is no accident that my son and I prayed and agreed to be accountable to one another during this season for staying in control.  We agreed to rest in Him who is able to strengthen us through His Power in the Spirit, because we are too weak and weary to do it alone. 

On our own, we will fail; not just my son and I, but each and every one of us.  No matter your situation, support structure, resources, talent and natural ability, you name it, it’s just not enough.  So give up.  Even that extra shot of espresso in your coffee won’t last forever, though it may make you feel better
(unless it sends you over the edge…)

Every confession of faith, every sinner’s prayer, every single 12 step program I’ve ever heard about makes two fundamental assertions….a) that we are ultimately powerless, and b) we cannot be restored on our own.  Isaiah 40:31 reads “But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint."  Why go it alone?  (There's probably an answer, but I'm not interested...I choose to tap into the ?Unlimited Source) 

So, today, I am thankful for my Source.  I am thankful for Him from whom all blessings flow.  I am thankful for my husband, my son who challenges me, and for my daughter, even if she didn’t get a mention this time around.  (I am also thankful for coffee, and for the wisdom to know when I’ve had enough.)  Thank You Lord, for letting us rest in You (when we are weary, even when we are not), because it is our assurance that God is good.