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August 5th 2003:
I'm reading in the book of Acts right now in my quiet time at home. As many times as I've read these wonderful chapters over the years, I always find so many new and reaffirming things in them. I find words of hope and encouragement that remind me again that our Lord is in control and He definitely has a plan.
The other day I was in a bit of a funk because some things in my life weren't going as well as I'd hoped. I started to wonder if I was missing God or was I on the right track. Then I read some verses in Acts: chapter 5, verses 38 and 39 and I stopped reading and started praising God. Basically what these verses said to me was exactly what I needed to be reminded of. "For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God." (NIV) Now I know that these verses were written about the early church but I think in our world today, it is so easy to get discouraged. Being able to read about our history as believers is one of the many blessings of the Bible. Our Father wanted us to know that we are never alone in any "battle" we might face. When we read about the battles faced by our predecessors in the early church, wow, how can we really feel too badly about our struggles. I remember another verse I have treasured and held on to. I quote these words to myself often. It can be found in John 16:33. I'm sure you all know it but as I said, I often remind myself of the words Jesus said to His disciples as He was trying to prepare them for the horror to come, His crucifixion. The verse says, "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." (NIV) As I write this I get all excited again. Thank you Lord for not leaving us unprepared. I have a new single out from my CD "I Refuse To Be Afraid." The title of the song is "He Is In Control." It is a somewhat simple, grooving song that I hope makes people smile and remember that HE is indeed in control. I know that when I sing this song, it makes me smile. I too am reminded that my Father has a plan for my life as He does for all His children. (So much for being in a funk) Denise View archived journal entries: January 20, 2012 August 16, 2010 October 13, 2009 May 28, 2009 December 10, 2008 July 29, 2008 March 26, 2008 December 18, 2007 October 11, 2007 July 21, 2007 March 23, 2007 December 14, 2006 October 10, 2006 June 26, 2006 March 15, 2006 December 20, 2005 October 24, 2005 June 20, 2005 March 15, 2005 December 17, 2004 September 9, 2004 June 2, 2004 February 15, 2004 November 7, 2003 August 5, 2003 June 10, 2003 January 11, 2003 July 28, 2002 May 15, 2002 March 18, 2002 January 1, 2002 October 22, 2001 September 21, 2001 August 15, 2001 June 21, 2001 May 15, 2001 March 27, 2001 |
