I thought I'd check in with a little update this morning. Life is still as busy, if not busier than the last time I blogged. That's just the nature of the beast! :)
We've come a long way with the house updates...still have so far to go. But I guess that will always be a work in progress to some extent. I really do promise to post some pics. You know, just trying to get everything "picture-ready" all at once, and then have the TIME to take them...yikes!
God has been using the circumstances of life and ministry to remind me of some powerful truths in recent days. It always strikes me in a fresh way when brought face-to-face with the war between the spirit and flesh that God's ways are just TOTALLY BACKWARDS from what we would naturally do. It is the Spirit that lives in me that has the power to control my tongue, to guard my thoughts, to not return evil for evil, etc., etc. In my own strength, I DO. NOT. have that ability.
We were not created for this world, friends. This is only a temporary set-up, though in our finite minds we really cannot grasp such a thing. We were never intended to feel comfortable here. Never designed to "fit in" with the philosophies and lifestyles of this world. Stinks, doesn't it? I know the reality of that can be truly unpleasant at times. But it's true. And God does have the grace to help us live lives that please Him. And not only that, He has given us His Holy Spirit to comfort, guide, and help us in the journey. That Spirit within gives us the sweet fragrance of Jesus that can love and love and love again, even those who despise us. That's just His way. We do not wrestle against flesh and blood (that's another tough one to remember when you'd rather just wring someone's neck) ...we must recognize the powers that rule this world are at war with the Spirit in us! It's not personal!!!
Okay...moving on. That was my morning pep talk to myself, and you got to listen in! Maybe one of you is right there with me at this time in life. Let's just remember that we are His and He is ours. We are His ambassadors for now in this world. Let's "sing forth the honor of His name and make His praise glorious."
Psalm 66:2
2 comments:
Amen, Sister, Amen!! I'm so glad that I got to listen in on your "pep talk," cause I needed it, too! =) It's a constant battle, isn't it?! And just remembering that we can't get comfortable in this life, is so important! I just read a quote in a book I'm reading (Praying through Life's Problems), that closely stated that same fact. Something to the effect of this world not being able to keep it's promises. We're to keep our faith in the only ONE who can! Keep encouraged, Friend!! And thanks for this post!!
i've had some very similar thoughts recently...esp. as i thought through and tried to effectively "lead" a study on the realities of sanctification in our lives...the secret really is the indwelling of the Holy Spirit...there is no way i can do it on my own, either!!! but His guidance, conviction, and comfort are life giving and sufficient for our neediness!! good to hear your kindred spirit thoughts...
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