Holy Spirit of God, help me to draw strength not from this world, but from you ...

Jeremiah 17:5-10 & Psalm 1 & Luke 16:19-31

Personal strength remedies sell very well these days, as a review of the titles of current self help books, articles and seminars will tell.  But making ‘mere flesh [our] strength’ is risky.  Very often another person’s idea of strength is not ours, and it is a fact that in the end, flesh and bone, and any ‘new’ self-development activities are passing and ultimately corruptible. Strength drawn from God, on the other hand, is founded on things that are eternal – purity, love, and deep spiritual truths, or ‘principles of mercy’.  It is the grace of God that ultimately heals and strengthens. I can count on the strength of the Holy Spirit at anytime, whether I am alone or with others, whether I am sick or in health, whether I am distressed in spirit or at peace.  Holy Spirit of God, help me to draw strength not from this world, but from you. 
 
Happy are those whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law meditate day and night. (Psalm 1:2)

Do you wish to rise? Begin by descending. You plan a tower that will pierce the clouds?  Lay first the foundation of humility.
Saint Augustine of Hippio                                                          

Soli gloriam dei .