Alongside My Master

[karen_trustlord]

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Oct 7, 2004
Alongside My Master


Galatians 5:25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.

Have you ever walked a dog? When you first leave the house, he pulls on the lead like crazy. He is just so excited, it's very hard to hold on. In fact, to onlookers, it looks like he is taking you for a walk. If you speak his name and tell him to "Heel!", he doesn't listen.

You then may take him to an open place to remove the lead. He then runs off steam, chases himself, a ball or a stick. After a few minutes of this he is ready is go back on the lead. Now, when you say, "Heel!" he listens, and walks right beside you. Now and then you have to remind him, but he usually listens and does as he's told. He's then happy to walk alongside of his master, 'keeping in step', no longer trying to pull ahead.

I'm afraid to say that this parallels my own life sometimes. I don't always obey my Master's commands. I try to run ahead and not listen. I stretch the lead further and further. I find, though, when I do listen and obey and not try to be the one in control, I feel much, much better. It's like I need a tug on a lead to remind me.

How do we walk alongside and 'keep in step' with the Master? We can 'keep in step' by consciously dependending upon God - this means staying in touch with His presence. Whatever keeps us in touch with our need for Him, combined with a heart that is willing to follow Christ, keeps us in step with Him. Things like prayer, bible reading, christian fellowship, worship ... are a few things to keep us in His presence. Also as we 'keep in step' the fruits of the Spirit(Gal 5:22-23... love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control) will be evident in our lives. These are recognizable qualities that only God can produce. Are you keeping in step today or trying to pull ahead with your own strength?

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Psalm 32:8 Thank You Lord for Your promise to instruct and teach us in the way we should go; that You will counsel and watch over us. Help each of us depend on You, walk alongside You and keep in step with You. Thank You that as each of us does this the fruit of Your Spirit will be evident in our lives. Let each of us feel Your peace in our lives today & always. In the name of Jesu Christ our Lord.


I for one really need this prayer.
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[The Story Teller]

Thanks Karen,

As long as I keep God in the drivers seat and not in the passengers seat all will be fine..

 

[RJ1]

Karen

I'll pray that prayer for both of us.

Thanks for sharing.

 

[FishR'O'Men]

My preacher uses this same scripture in reference to rock climbing and how hook guides must be aligned. I am keeping this in mind for him. TY

 

[Busybee]

Awesome parable that we can all apply to ourselves . Thanks for posting this Karen!!

 

[Serenity Now!]

Thank you Karen. I can definetly see myself in my Chocolate Lab now, who goes crazy trying to pull my arm off when we first leave the house for a walk. That is how I am with the Lord most of the time. I need to learn how to heel!