Read: Genesis 28:10-22 and Second Timothy 2:4
As a requirement for studies that I am currently pursuing, I have to take a course in Psychology. When I received the textbook, I thumbed through it to get a feel for what was in store. I must say that I gave a deep sigh as I looked at the depth of information that was presented there. I have taken Introduction to Psychology classes before and fully expected this one to be like the others - a superficial presentation of theories and experimental studies. But it is much deeper than that. The course material is very technical and will take me more in depth than I really want to go. I am not majoring in Psychology and was hoping to get the course over with as quickly as possible.
Now that I have begun, I am fascinated in learning about the complexity of the human mind. The thousands of processes that are taking place within it just to allow me to construct this meditation is in itself mind boggling! Hemispheres, lobes, glands, and a multitude of electrical impulses that connect them together truly are a testimony to the greatness of our Creator. Equally fascinating is the fact that no matter how educated we become or how much we study, we can't quite figure it all out. Who can tell why siblings can exhibit differing personalities even though they come from the same parentage, backgrounds, and experiences? Who can say why a joke makes one person laugh hysterically while another looks on unmoved? What is laughter anyway? What purpose does it serve? As I pondered the wonder of our minds and the beauty of our biological make-up, I was reminded of a behavioral trait exhibited in my younger son.
Ayron is a very inquisitive young man. He enjoys life and asks numerous questions about the many facets of it. His curiosity is such that when he has something under observation he can focus in on it with an incredible intensity. What captures my interest and tends to take me aback is the fact that he can, at times, become so fixated with something that his consciousness totally shuts out this "world" and is directed toward the realm of what he is observing. I have often called his name while he is doing this, and he does not hear me. Upon getting no answer, I go to investigate, only to find him studying an insect, gazing into his microscope, or manipulating the internal structure of one of his toys. It is only when I move right beside him and call him again that he "returns." The sound of my voice actually startles him for he had been unaware of my presence.
In reading our scriptures for the month we can see how easy it is to get so entangled with the business of living that we become totally unaware of God's presence. The Holy Spirit reveals to us through the apostle Paul that our attitude toward the Lord and the business of His Kingdom is to be like that of an enlisted soldier. While serving in the military, a soldier's concentration and loyalty is on the mission. When the commanders speak their voices are heard, respected and obeyed. Failure to do so could be costly or even deadly.
The Lord, our Commander, is speaking to us today. He may speak directly through His Word or may choose to use people, circumstances, songs, or numerous other elements to communicate His will. Let's not get so focused on "life" that we fail to hear His voice. Let it not be said of us that the Lord is in this place and we were not aware of it.
Prayer
Master, speak Thy servant heareth;
waiting for Thy gracious word;
Longing for Thy voice that cheereth;
Master, let it now be heard;
I am listening Lord for Thee;
What hast Thou to say to me?Amen.
Master, Speak Thy Servant Heareth
ŠPublic Domain, Anton Berggreen/Frances Ridley Havergal
