this is the last post from my previous blog. I know that I could probably somehow import it to this blog, but I have no clue how. I think it would be easier to just start fresh, and have a link to the old one. here is the address to the old blog keepingupwiththejones.blogspot.com/
How I should Respond
I have been dialoging lately with a friend about some problems she is
having. I recall when one of my relatives hurt my feelings very deeply
several years ago. I have been dealing with my own emotions responding
to someone else in my life who is not doing what I see that he should
according to Scripture. While thinking and praying about this, God has
revealed something to me. I need to focus on what I can do to GLORIFY
HIM through all these situations in my life. When I start feeling
frustrated or offended. His purpose through all of these situations is
not necessarily about ME. I want to get to the place where I can trust
Him and let go of my emotional responses. Not to say that it does not
hurt when someone speaks ill of you, based on your adherence to a godly
lifestyle. Especially when that someone is a family member whose love
you crave and opinion you value. Not to say it doesn't feel like a slap
in the face when you give godly counsel to someone who claims to be a
believer, only to have him not follow what you can clearly see is the
best path for his life. But I think that our godly response is to wait.
On the Lord. Although man's opinion may not be what we want to hear,
we can trust that GOD is pleased with our actions, and we can rest in
the assurance that He will resolve the situation in His own time and for
His good pleasure. I think of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego in the
fiery furnace. They did not worry about whether God could save them
from the intense flames. They knew He could, but they chose to stand
firm, worship and obey Him, WHETHER HE DID OR NOT. They did not have an
emotional response, but a faithful response.
It is not always easy,
but it is obedience. It is what the world sees, and questions. They
cannot understand how we can stand strong against adversity and
conflict. And God can use it to lead others to himself.
Oh, how I long to trust Him more...
"be still, and know that I am God..." Psalm 46:10
