When we substitute God for idols, we lose. We lose our husbands, our friends, our homes, our worth, our faith. There is no substitute for Jesus in our life any more than there is a substitute for brownies. You can run as fast and as hard as you want from God’s presence, but you will be empty and bound.
We might never see that ‘for good’ on this side of eternity, but rest assured, He never wastes our pain. Someday, we will experience that ultimate “aha!” moment. All of our struggles, pain, sorrow, and tears will finally make sense.
I am so glad God doesn’t cast us aside and consider us useless when we mess up. In Christ, we can come back from even our biggest failures.
In the same way, our heavenly Father hears us. He recognizes His children’s voice. He is attentive to our cries. You and I are not just another face in the crowd. We are His beloved.
Anxiety doesn’t have to rule your heart. Fear doesn’t have to be in charge. God’s peace can bring you inner quietness (Isaiah 26:3) Embrace the calming words of scripture. Trust in His goodness. If you’re in the center of His will, then that’s the best place to be.
Guest Post by Author Jan Kent “My guilt has overwhelmed me like a burden too heavy to bear.” Psalm 38:4 The albatross looks nice enough but I would not want
It is a sad fact that there are always a few individuals who will question or challenge our actions. “Why did you?” “Why didn’t you?” But God assures us that, if our intent is pure and our actions are performed out of love for God, then He will honor us and honor our gifts to His glory.
This is a constant challenge for those who wish to follow Jesus, a continual resolve not to let down our guard for a single moment for we do not know what might lie just around the bend.
If you and I are being honest with ourselves, we will admit there are times when we are prone to look at the next guy and compare our lives, our ministry, even our God-given gifts.
Claim that love. Walk in His love. Hold your head high and remember the price He paid to make you His Beloved. Then pour it out upon those God brings into your life. Because love is a gift that is meant to be cherished and shared.
