Enoch’s story in the Bible is one of few words. But the few words said about him are powerful, and ones I would be honored if God said them about my life: Enoch walked steadily with God. Basically, Enoch was firm in his commitment to God. It was a daily thing and not a Sunday thing. The Bible doesn’t record how often he read his Bible or how many times he prayed. Rather, Enoch’s steady walk with God was the most important thing he did. It was a relationship thing. He allowed God to be a part of his daily life . . . his relationships with others, his time, his work life, his money. He talked with God instead of to God.
Our theme at Cumberland this year is prayer. I believe Enoch steady walk with God incorporated prayer into his everyday life. Over the last few years, I discovered my prayers were always very formal . . . always beginning with ‘Dear God’ and ending with ‘In Jesus’ name.’ I still have some of those more formal prayer times, but the majority of my prayers now resemble a conversation with God. It has become more of an ongoing communication throughout my day. I thank Him for hot showers on cold mornings. I ask for His creativity when I’m struggling to write a scene in my novel. I ask Him to help my son Ashton to remember all the math problems we studied for his test. I thank Him for close parking spots. I don’t wait until a big event or situation arises before I turn to Him. I think Enoch lived his life this way as well. It seemed to work for him, so I believe it can work for me. And you.
January 5th, 2010 - 6:47 am
My faith is confirmed by His constant presence. He’s into the small stuff I sweat each day. He multiplies flasks of oil and a child’s lunch of fish and bread. We praise Him.
January 5th, 2010 - 7:00 am
Melony, I totally agree. I would love at then end of my earthly life to be described like Enoch was discribed. I want to walk with God in every way and every day. Business and things crowd into that relationship. If I don’t plan to spend a specific time with a friend I usually don’t see that person for weeks or months. If I don’t plan a quiet time with God I don’t think only of Him. I know there is a balance between walking moment by moment and planning time. Maybe one day I’ll get there.
January 5th, 2010 - 4:38 pm
Thanks for unpacking these verses and showing us how they apply to us! It really encouraged me, especially the idea that Enoch talked with God not to God…thanks for the encouragement and the challenge!!