FROM THE DIRECTOR’S DESK ~ Recently, I traveled with my family to the beach for vacation. Once on the beach, we would set up chairs and umbrellas as our base for the day While spending time in the ocean with my five (5) grandsons, I realized that we had drifted some ways down the beach. We began the strenuous journey back through the oceans current to be in sight of our family. The drifting didn’t happen suddenly but slowly over time.

Hebrews 2:1 says, “We must listen very carefully to the truth we have heard, or we may drift away from it.” Just like we drifted away from our family at the beach, if we are not careful, we can drift away from the truth (Jesus) that we have experienced and heard. This usually does not happen suddenly but subtly as time passes. There are many factors that could be the reason for our drifting away: Life crises or disappointments can be an issue. Experiences of loss, deep pain or seemingly unanswered prayers can lead to resentment or letdown. The busyness of life and distractions can slowly choke out time spent studying scripture and prayer. Complacency in our own success and self-sufficiency causes us to neglect the daily need for God’s guidance and direction. Unaddressed sin in our lives may cause us to justify bad habits that may create a barrier to lead us to avoid God’s presence. Isolation by pulling away from a supportive church community or fellow believers removes a vital layer of spiritual accountability and encouragement. These are only a few of the things that can cause us to drift away from desiring God’s presence. It is important for us to know and realize that these issues are not foreign to any of us. I would probably say that we all have experienced at least one of these challenges at some point and time. When we do, instead of fighting the current of our issues in our own strength, let us confess our sins to the Father who forgives and desires to see a right fellowship restored with Him. ~ God’s blessings, protection, and favor to all.

Benny Nolen
Director
Joseph's Storehouse