2 Chronicles 9: 5 - The Queen of Sheba: "It's all true! Solomon's reputation for accomplishment and wisdom that reached all the way to my country is confirmed. I perceive that her confirmation is based on what the eye can see. And Solomon's wisdom---for what? To confront injustice (like two mothers fighting over the same baby), to end poverty in his country, to heal wounds? And just how did he amass such a fortune? What about Solomon's heart?
The quote from this chapter catches my eye: "I owe you nothing. I give you everything. Your desire to fix things to relieve suffering, to confront injustice, to heal wounds, to end poverty, and to generate joy is commendable. But your desire is too weak and misguided. [Was that Solomon's problem?] If I were to fix all you see that is wrong and paintful without first destroying evil, not one would dance at My party...I must do whatever is necessary to destroy the evil within your depths, where you desire the good life more than you want Me, and I must replace that idolatrous desire with the holy yearning to know Me at any cost in the midst of your worst pain." Oh my! I wonder where I desire the good life more than my Good God?
"Desiring the good life, more than my Good God?" Bev, I really liked this question because it reminded me that we are all placed in this life to be powerful witnesses, and to let others see God at work in us. Giving into that "Good Worldly Life" always feels great to our flesh; however, only makes us blend in the crowd.
ReplyDeleteI believe that our good times in life, that we often view as the "the good life", shows God's love and faithfulness. Yet, we cannot run from the hard times, because as believers it is our perseverance and steadfast hope during those times that demonstrate our love and faithfulness to God.
How we live will help others see our love for God, and our testimonies will be powerful.
Interesting that I am reading this selection today. As I woke up I found myself obsessing over something that was not going to be. Something on my bucket list I've had three opportunities over the last twenty years to go but the time has never been right. Now as always some of my friends get to do what I wanted to do. I want to be happy for them and pray for them as they go forward. God is working on getting the evil out of me to have the right attitude. I know I must always desire holiness and yet this morning I found it very difficult to go there.
ReplyDeleteI am so thankful for a FAITHFUL God being there for this faithless sojourner this morning and bringing me back to HIM and His Holiness which are far more important than anything else in my life.
Interestingly enough, I was tested yesterday morning early concerning a decision for an activity this weekend to know if it was need driven for spirit driven. God worked in amazing ways and allowed me to make the right choices which even a year ago I would have never done. I was so thankful yesterday. Then before I went to bed last night up comes this other test which I did not fair as well. I am getting there. Thank you for the accountability to stay faithful to reading His Word.
And yesterday, Kim D. you were amazing with all the promisess. Thank you for listing them. Bev, Annette and Deborah I appreciate your comments as well. All of you bless me richly.
A song I must sing.
Sylvia
Since we started reading through the Word, this reoccurring theme of desiring the good life more than a Good God continues to stump me at times.
ReplyDeleteWhat I truly desire right now, or my definition of the "good" life is something good, something that is in line with God and His nature. When I think that it might not come to pass, I think that the "status quo" isn't very pleasing to God. But when I look deep down, part of what I desire is that "life would be easier" if what I desire comes to pass.
I don't know if I'm communicating what I really mean. Part of my motives are selfish and part are pure. As I work through this, I'm discovering the Good God.
I was reminded this week that I am walking in faith and not by sight. Even though I don't see what I desire coming to pass (in my timing), God has been/is/and going to be faithful. I'm learning to rest in that.
Lord, help me continue to work out my faith.
--michele
You have a beautiful heart Michele and a cry for holiness that HE Himself hears.
ReplyDeleteAnd Sylvia, your story was just precious to me in your pursuit of holiness.
It's one thing to read a quote and be convicted and want to move with the Spirit of God----but for that to happen is so much more than our will, our behavior, our desires----it is transformation. I'm not addressing anything any of you said but rather I'm just so wrestling with the way I see myself trying to live out holiness each day and wrestle with some really good questions about what is deeper than my behavior. You ladies are doing just that and it's such a privilege to walk with you! See you tomorrow!
I've cried on and off for the past 24 hours so upset about some life scenarios. Grieving from good places and from places where I want it to go away and that's not right. I am struggling more than usual with stuff going on and appreciate your prayers. Love to you all!
Kim, You always bring a beautiful perspective to see things from God's point-of-view!
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