I thought I had learned myself these last twenty years.  But, as ever, the Holy Spirit knew the time had come for me to learn some more.  Clearly, I needed a refresher course renewing my hours of understanding in humbleness.  I think I got a graduation certificate in this course today!

                I was reminded of the scripture in Isaiah 55:8, “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” says the LORD.  My flesh has really needed some work in a very specific area and God put me in a place where I would listen and obey without lip service.  Can you imagine?

                I have had to learn (again) to push through when I didn’t feel like it, want to, or could see the outcome.  At my age, and we don’t need to talk about that one, it has become continually more difficult to push through.  This has nothing to do with a physical fight or strength, but recognizing oppression (tactics) from the enemy who tries to keep me from attaining God’s best.  Can I get an AMEN from anyone?

                Matt. 11:12 “And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force.”  It is time for the children of God (you and me/Sons and Daughters of the Most High) to rise in this earth fulfilling our God-given tasks and assignments.   Whether it is to mentor little children, or to be the best Sunday school teacher there ever was, or to lead the choir in worship, or coaching young adults in the ways of Christ, or filling in for absent pastors, it is time to give it your all.  The work we do, whether in a church building or not, is what Martin Luther (the Great Reformer) called vocational evangelism.  Personally, I wanted to save the world singlehandedly, but I have come to understand that if I can touch those in my sphere of influence I will complete my God-given responsibilities, hence the goals laid out before me from the foundation of the world.  KNOWING God’s will is crucial for peace of mind and flesh.

                 I came home from school (in the tenth grade) and told my mother that I wanted to join the Peace Corps going half way around the world.  She was at the kitchen stove and calmly (as only she could) said, “Molly, if you can help those people you are around in this life, then you will have done something.”  God spoke through my mother that day.   Discernment is not that difficult if you are willing to receive God's will. 

                Let His light in you be the beacon of hope for everyone you come in contact with. Let them know Jesus was in the house.  Let them feel His love, His compassion, His steadfastness and His ability to always do the right thing in every situation….then we (Christians) will take back what Satan is trying to destroy.  And my friend, if you think there is not a battle at the door then he (Satan) has got you where he wants you.    

Have a great weekend,

Molly