I recently posted a list of things that the believer will discover as we live under the grace of God. One of the items on that list said this: “To rely on God’s chastening hand as a mark of His kindness.” Eleven days ago, I experienced a fall in which I broke my back at the T11 level and became paralyzed from the waist down. Casey and I are rejoicing in this, because our reaction to it was to thank God for this demonstration of His grace rather than to whine about our misfortune.
This is no credit to us, but evidence of what the Holy Spirit has worked in us. As believers, we enjoy the assurance that everything that happens to us is for our good and God’s glory. To us, that means that God has a purpose in this. We are excited to see just what that purpose is and thankful to be a part of God’s plan in these final days.
Already, we have had many opportunities to share the Gospel and tell others about the love and grace of God; opportunities we would not otherwise have had. Though we doubt I will be in this condition for long, we are committed to make the most of it for as long as we can, even years if the Lord wills it.
God has opened a door for us to become much more active in laboring to bring in souls for the harvest. In that, we rejoice.
We feel like we have entered an era of critical days before the end of the Age of Grace. Be encouraged! The Lord is returning soon to keep His promise about sparing His bride from the coming Tribulation!
” Because you kept my command to endure, I also will keep you from the hour of testing which is to come on the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth. 11 I am coming quickly! Hold firmly that which you have, so that no one takes your crown.” Rev 3″10-11 WEB Emphasis added.
This does not mean that we will not endure some of the birth pangs leading up to our departure. Psalm 91 ensures us of our safety though, in spite of every peril. Do not be dismayed or saddened by what we are experiencing, but rejoice with us! It is time to lift up our heads for our redemption draws nigh!
“A thousand may fall at your side,
and ten thousand at your right hand;
but it will not come near you.
8 You will only look with your eyes,
and see the recompense of the wicked.” Psalm 91:7-8 WEB
Photo Credits
- Adapted from #91237724/Jankovoy-adobe stock.com
- #119698206/Anna Barburkina-adobe stock.com
- Don’t Mess With Israel by Greg Lauer @alittlestrength.com
A New Name 