Encourage them to continue in the faith
Say that it is through many tribulations we must enter the Kingdom of God
Today's religion applauds those who strengthen and encourage others---but what about encouragement to embrace our tribulations. Are Christians reminding you that it is through many tribulations we must enter the Kingdom. Our flesh does not want to suffer nor does it want anyone else to suffer. So we cajole and carry on with explanations. We deny and dodge the issues. Do we want God's will more than we want the comfortable life. Enter the tribulations sent by God.
Our culture says: Woundedness is more serious than selfishness.
Live for relational comfort and you'll live shallow.
Live to know the Truth and you'll be deeply unsettled... 66 LL
The 66 LL quote is so big to me--we do want comfort, consolation, the good life, comfort. It's against human nature and instinctual survival mode not to. God is so holy, so wholly other, and His ways are not our ways. Paul suffered and was left for dead so many times, yet his purpose driven by the Holy Spirit sustained and propelled him to continue.
ReplyDeleteMay we each live with that intentional motivation, guided by His Spirit, forgetting creature comforts, knowing Eternity is at stake.
"..you should turn from these vain things to a living God, who made the heaven and the earth and the sea and all that is in them."
Praying for you today Annette as you face so much in your days ahead. May He bear witness to the Word of His Grace in you, the Word you love so much! May He grant you signs and wonders done through the work of your hands for your family!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Bev! I had such a small thing I needed today, but decided to pray about it. I was looking for a dress to wear to the wedding, and I asked if He would find me the right one and take the stress out of it. The first one I tried on today I bought and it was a great price, the right color, and fit well.
ReplyDeleteI know this sounds self absorbed, but I was so glad not to have to put myself through any more of this--vain things, indeed. But to understand the real need--so much self-loathing, putting myself down for needing to lose weight, having to squeeze into a dress, etc. He doesn't want us to feel that kind of rejection, especially when it is self inflicted. I am thankful and at peace, no doubt due to prayers and love infused into this day!
Annette, That makes me so very happy for you. With having gone through two weddings recently, I know the grateful sigh of relief. Besides, all eyes are on the mother of the bride. You'd look great in a sack! Can't wait to see your dress---if you chose it, it's beautiful.
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