Morning Devotional 030726 Bloom Where You Are Planted!

Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room

March 7, 2026

Acts 18:18-23

18 After Paul stayed in Corinth for some time, he said good-bye to the brothers and sisters. At the Corinthian seaport of Cenchreae he had his head shaved, since he had made a solemn promise. Then, accompanied by Priscilla and Aquila, he sailed away to Syria. 19 After they arrived in Ephesus, he left Priscilla and Aquila and entered the synagogue and interacted with the Jews. 20 They asked him to stay longer, but he declined. 21 As he said farewell to them, though, he added, “God willing, I will return.” Then he sailed off from Ephesus. 22 He arrived in Caesarea, went up to Jerusalem and greeted the church, and then went down to Antioch. 23 After some time there he left and traveled from place to place in the region of Galatia and the district of Phrygia, strengthening all the disciples.

Good Morning, I will go where you lead me!

I saw a funny meme the other day. It showed a retired Methodist preacher throwing away a “good” box. For anyone who has moved many times in their lives, you inherently collect the good packing boxes. I’m especially fond of the boxes with the handle cutouts. 

Throughout the Bible, we read about God calling and sending those who are chosen. I am in awe of those like Moses and Abraham who answered their calls at an age when you would expect to sit down and let life wind down, but that was not to be. God called them and off they went to lead God’s children. 

As a result of our family’s moving first courtesy of the U.S. Navy, and then answering God’s call, I see that I have had the opportunity to grow and experience many things that we might never have done if we had remained in our hometown.  

My life has had its challenges, with bumps and bruises along the way, but I can’t imagine missing even one of the grand adventures or meeting one of the angels God placed on our path. I count my blessings each day when I see a friendly face from a place we lived years ago. The memories of our time together bless my soul. The wonderful thing about time and memories is how the pain of the challenges fades while the joy continues to grow. Praise be to our God of love and mercy. 

God of Wisdom, you bless us abundantly! Even when we don’t realize it, you are always working behind the scenes and preparing a place for us to grow. We love you. In Christ’s name we pray, Amen.

Thought for the day: Embrace every minute of our God-led experiences! 

Bloom where you are planted! Pastor Liz