How Awesome!

What takes your breath away?

The word “awesome” means overwhelming reverence, admiration, or fear. Jacob was the first to use this word in the Bible in Genesis 28:16-17. Listen carefully. “Then Jacob awoke from his sleep and said, ‘Surely the Lord is in this place, and I did not know it.’ And he was afraid and said,
‘How awesome is this place!'”

The Bible places an exclamation point after this phrase. Being in the presence of God Almighty took Jacob’s breath away. He was stunned, shocked, moved to the core of his being. Imagine him catching his breath and saying, “How Awesome is this place!” That’s why I don’t use the word “awesome” for a new pair of shoes, or when describing a vacation, or watching someone make a winning buzzer shot. Those don’t take my breath away. Impressive yes, but not on par with an encounter with God Almighty – Jehovah Jirah – the Bright Morning Star – the Alpha and Omega – the great I AM.

So today, I encourage you to have an encounter with the living God as you work through your financial challenges. Seek Him, read His word, fast, and pray in secret. Ask for his help. Knock on his door persistently and faithfully, and then persevere. When He intervenes, I hope it takes your breath away! Not because you get out of debt or put more savings in the bank, but because He was present in the details of your life. That’s when you can say, “How awesome was that!”

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