CONSIDER IT
When we lose someone or something dear to us, we grieve. Some of us grieve openly, while others of us keep it private. Many people say God feels far away when they are grieving. But Jesus is all too familiar with suffering. He knows what it is like to lose everything, and He knows what it is like to watch the people He loves endure the worst possible grief.
Think of a time when you experienced a significant loss. This might be the death of a loved one, the loss of a job, a divorce, the loss of your house, or your health. What did you do to cope with that loss? Did you just "pull yourself together" and move on? Did you talk to people? Did you withdraw?
EXPERIENCE IT
"Do not expect to be treated fairly in this life. People will say and do hurtful things that you don't deserve. When someone mistreats you, try to view it as an opportunity to grow in grace. See how quickly you can forgive the one who has wounded you. Don't be concerned about setting the record straight. Instead of obsessing about other people's opinions of you, keep your focus on Me. Ultimately, it is My view of you that counts.
As you concentrate on relating to Me, remember that I have clothed you in My righteousness and holiness. I see you attired in these radiant garments, which I bought for you with My blood. This also is not fair; it is pure gift. When others treat you unfairly, remember that My ways with you are much better than fair. My ways are Peace and Love, which I have poured out into your heart by My Spirit"
What do you typically do when you are treated unfairly? How easy is it for you to forgive?
"I am with you. I am with you. I am with you. Heaven's bells continually peal with that promise of My Presence. Some people never hear those bells because their minds are earthbound and their hearts are closed to Me. Others hear the bells only once or twice in their lifetimes, in rare moments of seeking Me above all else. My desire is that my "sheep" hear My voice continually, for I am the ever-present Shepherd.
Quietness is the classroom where you learn to hear My voice. Beginners need a quiet place in order to still their minds. As you advance in this discipline, you gradually learn to carry the stillness with you wherever you go. When you step back into the mainstream of life, strain to hear those glorious bells: I am with you. I am with you. I am with you"
Do you make time for quietness every day? If so, how does it affect your spirit? If you find it hard to make time for quiet moments with God, how do you think that might be affecting you?
(Consider It ... Experience It / Sarah Young)
Scripture Insight: Psalm 22:1, 30-31 and Psalm 130:5
"My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, so far from the words of my groaning? 30-Posterity will serve him; future generations will be told about the Lord. They will proclaim his righteousness to a people yet unborn - for his has done it"
ReplyDelete(Psalm 22:1, 30-31 / New International Version)
"I wait for the LORD, my soul waits, and in his word I put my hope"
(Psalm 130:5 / New International Version)