More Thoughts

It's been so busy lately, that I haven't had much time to write my thoughts down.   Last weekend was a full weekend of learning, with some notable occurrences.

I had been trying to understand why I was a victim of burglary; and what I could learn from that negative experience.   It did enable me to be more empathetic when a friend of mine went through something similar; and, it does help me to better understand imprecatory prayers, like in Nehemiah and Psalms.  It also helps me to relate to the facing opposition passage for this week's lesson.

But, I admit that more than once, I have asked "Why?"    It was interesting that the College Pastor's sermon on Sunday addressed that in his message "Is God Wise?"  Wisdom is discernment of right and wrong; and God is unquestionably all-wise.  So, the question is posed then, why would God allow bad things to happen to good people?   His answer was that God works all things together for good; and that we can trust that things will work out for His glory.  So, I will trust that God has a bigger plan in all this.   Like Nehemiah and David, I will leave the executing of justice to God.    And, if the thief is so moved to repent of his wicked ways and turn to God, I will even rejoice.  Meanwhile, I have a verse near the door of my home where I can see it whenever I enter or exit:  "Be strong and courageous!  Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord your God is with you."  (Joshua 1:9)

This week's passage in Nehemiah also clearly says to me that opposition and challenges from the "enemy" should not stop me from doing God's work.  That I just need to trust Him, to continue working, and just to make any necessary adjustments and preparations.

The Community Group Leadership meeting on Sunday also reminded me why it was important to continue to follow the worthy calling of declaring the GOSPEL message, for it is a lifetime "job":  Men will never figure out another way to conquer sin or resist temptation, Truth is not relative, All need soul food and a roadmap to heaven. "We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us."  (2 Corinth 5:20a)

I also had a "conversation with God" after Church on Sunday; and he reminded me that He is the Bridegroom, and that He loves me more and better than any earthly husband ever could.  What a beautiful and incredible promise!