Key Bible Verse: I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you … realize what a rich and glorious inheritance he has given to his people (Ephesians 1:18). Bonus Reading: 2 Peter 3:11-14

Our friends Mark and JoAnne gave us their unused NordicTrack. As they delivered it, we started talking about exercise, and I commended the benefits of running. Even in mid-winter, you can stave off cabin fever and keep yourself in shape. JoAnne said, "You know, I don't like to run but, I like the idea of liking to run."

I thought, That's a good admission—filled with hope. How could she turn that idea into the reality of liking to run? Run! Get out and do it. Start simple and build up an appropriate pace. Learn about the sport. Do it as a discipline until it becomes a joy. Soon you'll be an avid runner.

Some of us need to admit the same about God and His presence. "I don't like the presence of God. If I did, I'd spend more time cultivating, acknowledging, and seeking it. But I like the idea of liking the presence of God. So I'd better make a start right now." You don't want to show up in heaven one day without maximum capacity to enjoy this God who wants to usher you into His very own happiness. Heaven is an acquired taste, and we've got to get ready for it now.

—Greg Lafferty in Preaching Today

My Response: I could make a start at liking the presence of God by …

Thought to Apply: We are meant to be addicted to God, but we develop secondary addictions that temporarily appear to fix our problem.—EDWARD BERCKMAN (writer)

Adapted from Preaching Today (254) by permission.

Prayer for the Week

Thank you, Lord, for the hope of heaven. Use it in my earthly life to inspire and sustain my passion and purpose.

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