I'm thankful that God doesn't give up on us, but chooses to continually break us and mold us into what He wants us to be. For some reason, God has chosen at this time in my life to stretch me and I can only believe it is part of the overall big picture. I feel the stretching. As a sinner, I dread the pain and cannot wait for it to be over. Yet when I sit back and examine it, I'm thankful for the stretching because it means that God is still at work. Much more tragic would be the case if He wasn't working on me.
Yesterday morning as I was sitting in church, I heard the beginning chords of the special music and the inward groanings began. I knew the song by heart and knew that the chances were good to excellent that I would be crying by the end of the song. I'm pretty much sick of crying and wasn't thrilled that it was about to happen again.
Here are a few of the lyrics to the song that Amber, Jill and Erica sang:
"Lord, as I seek Your guidance for the day, I find my thoughts unyielding, confusion crowds my way. But then, when I bow to You, the challenges You guide me through, Your promises are ever new, I claim them for today. Your will cannot lead me where Your grace cannot keep me, Your hand will protect me, I rest in Your care. Your eyes will watch over me, Your love will forgive me, and when I am faltering, I still will find you there."
As I sat there, tears streaming down my face, the words "your love will forgive me, and when I am faltering, I still will find you there" continually hit me. What a blessing to know that even though I fail continually and I feel like my footsteps in life are faltering right now, He still loves me, forgives me and will guide me through this time.
Thank you to those who've been praying for me. Thank you for your words of encouragement. As you continue to pray for me, you might also think of my poor husband. I've been so emotional these past few weeks. I feel like I've cried more days than I haven't cried and he has been so patient with me.
5 comments:
A group sang that in my church a few weeks ago. I found myself gulping because it reminded me of Guam. I don't wish I was there, but I miss the people. Hugs to you.
You are so right! As much as we might dislike the pain that comes with His working in our lives, it would be even worse if He gave up on us.
I am sorry that you are feeling low right now, but I rejoice in your sweet spirit and attitude towards the Lord.
We are praying for you both and for God's blessings on your lives.
Our prayers for you continue. Please know that though you may be hurting and emotional right now, the way you are choosing to handle what God has brought your way is such a blessing and encouragement.
I too was hit hard by that song. I have neer heard it before, but what a message. I have been praying for you hard lately. The Lord has really been laying you on my heart. I am sorry for the pain that you have been facing over the last few months. I am sure it is all a roller coaster.
I look forward to distracting you for a few hours from life and bringing you into "Julie world" tomorrow. :) Then, just think, a whole week of vacation!
My exact sentiments as Pam... the song reminds me of Guam.
There's nothing wrong with tears at church. Praise God He is working.
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