Strong Brew

Psalm 85

Righteousness goes before him and prepares the way for his steps. (Ps. 85:13)

AS I WRITE THIS, I have a steaming mug of coffee on my desk. I love everything about coffee, the smell, the taste, the color. I have spent years improving my recipe for the perfect cup of coffee. Each morning as I scoop the grounds into my coffee filter, I'm reminded that the more coffee I use, the stronger the brew. Our obedience to God is kind of like that coffee, and God's blessings are the brew. The more righteousness (obedience) that is present in our lives, the stronger the presence of His blessings will be. God loves us. He wants to bless us with good things. However, expecting God's blessings when we aren't living in righteousness and obedience is like expecting a strong cup of coffee without adding enough coffee beans. All you are going to get is a cup of hot, weak, watery broth. But the more obedience we scoop into the filter of our lives, the stronger the brew of God's blessings will be. The more we listen to God and follow His directions, the more we will please Him. Righteousness is a key ingredient in the recipe for God's approval. Whether it be for an individual or for a nation, conformity to God's laws and respect for His authority draw Him near. Obedience keeps us close to Him and prepares the way for His blessings.

Renae Brumbaugh

As you drink your coffee today, ask God to help you obey Him more fully.