Ugly Wrapping Paper
What is the point of our trials? How do we hold on when we are waiting on God to do something and it is taking much longer than we ever thought it would? My family and I are currently going through a time like this. I have been dealing with a sickness for over two years now. When I first became ill a couple of years ago, my husband and I both sensed God speak to us through scripture and tell us he was going to heal me, and we are still trusting him for that. We thought it was going to be instant. We definitely did not think that over two years later I would still be sick. I swing back and forth with knowing that God’s plan is best and wondering what in the world he is doing. Doesn’t he know that Seab and I have big plans for ministry and that in this state I can’t DO very much?? I know that I am not the only one in our faith family that is struggling with some sort of trial. Your situation may not be as bad as mine or it could be a whole lot worse. I was having a particularly bad night tonight and this is the scripture that God gave me when I sat down to pray about what to share with you guys: “If you hold on to me for dear life,” says God, “I’ll get you out of any trouble. I’ll give you the best of care if only you’ll get to know and trust me.” (Psalm 91:14 The Message) God has used my situation to teach me to really trust him. If not for this time, I would have continued to walk through life in my own strength. He has done so much work in my heart as well, and I know it’s because I’ve been forced to slow down and have spent more time with him. So, even though my situation and yours may seem ugly and pointless, God can use it to give us two of the greatest gifts- knowing and trusting him. We all love getting gifts, and God gives great ones, it’s just that he doesn’t always choose the wrapping paper that we would prefer!
Thanks Bonnie for reminding me that although God can use our own efforts to work our way out of hard situations, it is more important that we humbly, and faithfully depend on Him to bring us through and grow us at the same time. We have really enjoyed getting to know you, Seab and your family. Thank you for this great FOA this morning.
Bonnie -
God trusts you with his silence. Wow. He trusts you with difficult circumstances, and he gives you sufficient grace. You’re in the company of Paul! whoa. It’s an honor to know you! Nothing is too difficult for our Lord — even if that difficult thing is having your accept your circumstances and grow through them. In the end, His glory is what matter — and you are definitely glorifying and magnifying and exalting Him. Thanks for fighting the good fight of faith, and sharing with us. Blessings my friend.
alan
Bonnie…thanks so much for your words and your giving me a clearer glimpse of God through His story through you. Knowing and trusting in Him…you’re right, such great gifts from our Heavenly Father. Gifts that we either take for granted OR assume we really know or trust Him…to the point that we don’t pursue Him. Again, thanks for your words…and it’s been great getting to know you and Seab better through SL…I look forward to getting to know you both better. Cheers, Doug
Bonnie,
Thank you so much for your message and for your example of tremendous faith. I’m going through a similar situation where I’m having to wait on God’s timing. My husband and I recently married and he’s been unemployed for some time. We’re struggling financially and lately I’ve been wondering, “How long, Lord?”
A dear friend of mine who also attends CCC sent me this via email and I thought it really applied so I wanted to share it.
Attitude in Adversity
Philippians 2:5
A positive, faith-filled attitude will cause you to rise higher in life, but a negative, self-critical attitude will only drag you down. When we face adversity, our attitude affects the outcome. Are we going to treat people right even when we’re being mistreated? Are we going to stay full of joy even when the bottom falls out? So many people get all bent out of shape and start complaining when things don’t go their way, but that kind of attitude only closes the door to God’s miracle-working power. He’s trying to work in your life. He’s trying to get you prepared for promotion, but you’ve got to stay on His side. You’ve got to stand strong and fight that good fight of faith! If you are going through a difficult time today, I encourage you to keep an attitude of faith and expectancy. Start Thanking God for bringing you through to the other side. Pray This Prayer With Me, Heavenly Father, Today I choose to have a positive, faith-filled attitude. I choose to bless You and trust You even when things don’t make sense in my natural mind. I know You have a good plan for me and trust that You are working all things out for my good. In Jesus Name We Pray… Amen.
I’ll be praying for you and your family, Bonnie. Hold your head high and don’t let your spirit waiver!
Love in Christ,
Savannah King
Thank you Savannah! I will be praying for you guys as well.