For the Good

It's amazing how trials can bring out the best. James wasn't kidding when he said "consider it pure joy my brothers whenever you face trials of many kinds." He obviously got the understanding that it is only through trials that we truly grow.

Here lately life hasn't turned out quite like I expected. So I had a choice to make... I could either get upset, doubt God, take offense, harbor bitterness or I can step on top of the mess and choose to love God anyway.

I was going through life recently and as I was getting out of my car I started mumbling to myself. To be honest, I don't even remember what I was debating in my head, but I was definitely weighing which thought pattern I was going to take. My choices were pretty clear in front of me. One good option or one shallow option. I thought for a second and then stopped in my tracks and stated out loud.

"No. You know what satan... that is a stupid idea."

I knew the bad option would be right up his alley. So I reminded him...

"Why would I ever listen to you? You, hate me and God loves me. Of course I am going to take His path, because I know that all you want to do to me is kill me, steal from me and destroy me. "

As soon as I said this out loud everything became so clear. There was no battle anymore. I think when we realize how much God loves us, it doesn't matter how hard the road is that He has for us, we will follow. I mean who ever follows someone that despises them, especially when the other option is to follow someone who loves us intensely.

This song has been my theme song lately. My declaration each morning:

Verse 1:
Nothing can separate
Even if I ran away
Your love never fails

I know I still make mistakes, but
You have new mercy for me everyday
Your love never fails

Chorus:
You stay the same through the ages
Your love never changes
There may be pain in the night
But joy comes in the morning
And when the oceans rage
I don’t have to be afraid
Because I know that you love me
And your love never fails

Verse 2:
The wind is strong and the water’s deep, but
I’m not alone here in these open seas
Cause your love never fails

The chasm was far too wide
I never thought I’d reach the other side
But your love never fails

I love that no matter what we go through, God chooses to use it for our good - simply because we love Him! : )
Bridge: You make all things, work together for my good