Strengthened

Daniel 10:18Again one having the appearance of a man touched me and strengthened me. 19And he said, "O man greatly loved, fear not, peace be with you; be strong and of good courage." And as he spoke to me, I was strengthened and said, "Let my lord speak, for you have strengthened me."

An angel appears to Daniel and Daniel falls on his face, unable to speak. He felt like he was dying in the presence of this heavenly being. The angel had to touch him to strengthen him and the angel spoke encouraging words to Daniel. After this encouragement, Daniel was able to stand before this incredible being and speak with it.

Luke 5:8But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, "Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord." 9For he and all who were with him were astonished at the catch of fish that they had taken, 10and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, "Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men." 11And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed him.

Similar to Daniel, Simon Peter's response to Jesus' miraculous provision of fish was worship and fear. However, Jesus responds with tenderness and encouragement and this prompts Simon Peter to leave everything behind to follow Him.

I've been trying hard to focus back on God. I know that I need to work on fearing Him. God is awesome and glorious and I definitely do not pay Him the reverence He deserves. However, I think God is encouraging me today. He is telling me that fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, but also that He wants me to be strengthened in my faith. I am so good at beating myself up, but really, that keeps me from being strengthened. Instead, I need to keep refreshing myself in the Lord. God is not distant. I need to seek His face. Because of Jesus, I can face the glory of God. I am strengthened by Jesus. If I follow Christ, I'll be close to God.

Heavenly Father, forgive me for my sins. I'm sorry for being so discouraged. Please strengthen me again today. Show me how to pursue You with a clean heart. Jesus, make me more like You. I give up my wants and desires and ask that You use me for Your purposes today. Lord, without You, I am nothing. Lord, with You, I have everything. I fear You, Lord, but I know that You call me "loved" and that You encourage me with Your touch. I love You, Lord. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.