On the devotion from 7/13, Patrick reflects on the state of his fluctuation-prone faith and how best to keep it steady that we thought was really introspective, honest and worth sharing:
As an image, I think of my life as a tug of war between my Christian Spirit and my flesh. Another image I have is like the tide that ebbs in and out. Occasionally, in storm conditions, it crashes in and out. But it’s always in motion. My life direction hinges on my decisions. I am influenced either by the quiet, still and lovingly persistent voice of God or the brash glitzy and also persistent noises of the world. I have ideals but they become values only if I spend time doing/living them. My #1 value is to focus on my faith and my relationship with God. Building on that solid foundation, I go into each day seeing the beauty of life, and can play my part to help others on the way. I tread confidently but carefully. When I find I’m off track, influenced by the noise of the world, I consciously stop, become still and reconnect with “The peace that passes all understanding.”
