“Whom have I in heaven but You? And I have no delight or desire on earth besides You. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the Rock and firm Strength of my heart and my Portion forever.”—Psalm 73:25–26

By 1815, Francis Asbury was among the best-known people in America. He earned this recognition through his tireless efforts to reach souls for Christ. He transformed the nation with his zeal for evangelism. One of the important strategies Asbury developed was the camp meeting. The first recorded such meeting in America was held in Cane Ridge, Kentucky, in 1801. This was attended by more than 25,000 people. During this meeting, hundreds fell under the mighty power of God. This and other meetings sparked a revival movement. By 1821, nearly 1,000 camp meetings were held each year among the Methodists alone. Asbury tirelessly traveled the length of America on horseback, crossing the Allegheny Mountains 60 times. He traveled on rocky paths and muddy roads, often threatened by robbers. When plagued by nagging illnesses and hunger, he continued to press on. Shortly before he died, Asbury paraphrased Psalm 73, writing God “was the strength of my heart and my portion forever!” He gave his life, so a nation could know God. Consider the example of Francis Asbury. Ask yourself whether God is the strength of your heart. Do you really trust Him? What impact are you making on the world? What will be your legacy? Dedicate your time, talents, and treasures to God. Allow Him to use you to reach people with the Gospel.

Reflection Question: How committed are you to sharing the Gospel?

“Oh, that My people would listen to Me, that Israel would walk in My ways! I would soon subdue their enemies [ … ] with honey from the rock I would have satisfied you.”– Psalm 81:13–16 NKJV

The Bible assures us that God stands by our side, always ready to help. But if we want His maximum blessings, we need to do two things: listen to Him and walk in His ways. These directions are important! The Bible reminds us that many believers are dominated by their own pleasures. But a change takes place when we become aggressive listeners and pay careful attention to God’s Word. Listening gives us greater sensitivity to God. It means being focused on Him, desiring to do His will, being eager to know His Word, and having a heart of obedience. Be in tune with His Spirit, desire to know and obey His Word. Be consumed with love for God. If we do these things, He promised to free us from fear, anxiety, and worry, and meet our needs abundantly. He will provide for us and satisfy us “with honey from the rock.” How many of us see the rocks of life and conclude that nothing good can come from them? God says that He will bring satisfaction from these very rocks. But we need to have lives consumed by His presence. Be sensitive to His Spirit. Be filled with a desire to please Him. Today, ask God to help you be a better listener. Surrender your life anew to Him. Seek to walk in His ways. Trust Him. Depend on Him for protection, provision, and satisfaction.

Reflection Question: How can you improve your listening skills?