God a Genie?

Below is part of my devotions from this morning. I often write so my thoughts will stay focused. I am putting it down for you to see. I don't know why, I just feel that I should. I don't like bearing my soul because that would leave it out there for others to tread on. But, I'm doing it anyway so here you go...

I often find myself treating God like a genie. I don't desire to do that but often find myself doing so. We have a lot of things going on in order to get over to Ireland at the beginning of August, including raising support by the end of June and selling a house. I find myself falling into old habits of trying to please God in order to find His favor so that he will work the way I want in my timing. Deep down my heart just simply desires to please God but that natural desire can quickly become twisted into manipulation. Thank God He can see this better than I can and will not be manipulated. I have to constantly remind myself that other than through the redeeming blood of Christ, my works are as filthy rags (Isaiah 64:6). When God sees me He only finds favor in me through the covering of His son's blood that covers my sins. Through this covering my Father sees me as beautiful. Nothing I do will ever make God love me more or less than He does now.

I am overwhelmed at the task before us. I have to remind myself that it is God that called us to His work and therefore it is His responsibility that He provides for us. We just have to be obedient to His calling. I have to rely on Him and trust Him so that I can have peace(Isaiah 26:3)...so that my life can glorify Him. Deep down that is my desire. I don't know how or when He will move, but I trust that His plan is better than mine. I praise God in advance for the work He is going to do in the perfect way He always does.

Lord, have your way in my life. Let it not be my will but Yours. Show me what you would have me to do today. Help me to die to myself. Whatever it is You want me to do, my answer is Yes. Help me to obey your will. I believe in You, help my unbelief (Mark 9:24).