Wednesday, September 24, 2008

Words of Encouragement

What would you do if you came across a fish this big?  (I can tell you, I wouldn't want to stand around to long, I might begin to look like fish food!) Yet, when I look at this picture, I think of the bounty that God has within his waters.  No I'm not talking about fish in the rivers, but I am talking about spiritual food in the life giving streams.  God has an abundance of provisions to give to us on this Christian walk, if we only ask him for it.

(for that righteous man, living among them day after day, was tormented in his righteous soul by the lawless deeds he saw and heard)— if this is so, then the Lord knows how to rescue godly men from trials and to hold the unrighteous for the day of judgment, while continuing their punishment. This is especially true of those who follow the corrupt desire of the sinful nature and despise authority. - 2 Peter 2:8-10

Things God Will Not Say. What Do You Think I Should Do? What would happen if God had to ask you and I how to take care of his children?  What would happen if God heard about our torment and he came to you and I and ask, "Jewel, what do you think I should do?" While I might have my own idea of what should happen, I surely do not want this great task upon my shoulders.

If this is true, why do we continually try to tell God how to do things our way?  Why do we question his timing and his methods.  No, we would not openly say God you are incapable of handling my affairs, but do you know that is what our actions do when we refuse to let go of our cares to him.

This scripture today reminds us about those that were tormented because of the righteousness they did.  The scripture goes on to tell that this torment is not going unchecked by God. He already knows about it and he is able to protect those that belong to him.  We may ask, well if this is true, why does so much bad happen to those that love him?  God's ways are far greater than mine so I can only tell you God allows those things because he has a greater plan that he is working out through those situations and circumstances.  We must simply trust his ways.  We do not have to worry because God is not coming to us and saying, what do you think I should do as if he is clueless about what needs to be done in our lives.

Today, I pray for us to hold tight to his hand and know he will keep us and protect us.  God you are our God, if you had enough power to save us, surely you can keep us.