Laboring In Vain

Text: Psalm 127 Theme: Any project or institution not initiated and empowered by God is useless, tiresome, and distracting. Key verses: “Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build it; Unless the Lord guards the city, the watchman stays awake in vain. It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows; for so He gives His beloved sleep. Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord…” (v. 1-3a) What God said to me: Son, I tire of watching you grow tired, of seeing you try to initiate and produce income and new resources. I grow impatient with how you often ignore me and our time together in the mornings. Instead you run straight to your computer to check your email, hoping someone has rewarded your efforts. How many times do I have to tell you, I am your source in life. I can do more with and through and for you in 5 minutes than you can in a week of struggling on your own. Without me, you are kicking against a brick wall. Only I can break down the barriers than prevent you from prospering and succeeding. Only I can lead you in the direction that will best honor me and bring joy and rest to you and your family. I have blessed you beyond what you can imagine with a precious wife and children. Be very careful that you don’t work so hard and so many long hours that you don’t invest time with them. They are my gift to you, but they are also your responsibility to love, cherish and nourish in my Word and ways. Dwayne, seek first my Kingdom and righteousness. Trust me to be your Vine, your source of all you need. I will add all the earthy things necessary for you and your family. Just trust me, glorify me, shine for me, and live for me daily. What I said to God: Thank You, Lord, for speaking so clearly to my heart this morning. I so appreciate You still loving and putting up with me. I am amazed by Your mercy and grace and patience. Please forgive me for trying to build my company and my house on my own. I cannot. I must listen to Your still small voice and obey You implicitly everyday. I commit this day to You to live it only for You and trust You for the outcome.