In Romans 4:18-21, we read: "Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, "So shall your offspring be." Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that his body was as good as dead — since he was about a hundred years old — and that Sarah's womb was also dead. Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised." (NIV)
I love this passage of Scripture. You see Abraham wasn't ignorant to his situation; he recognized that he and Sarah's bodies were as good as dead...BUT...he didn't let that shake him. He remembered what GOD PROMISED...And...by remembering what GOD said, he was strengthened in his faith.
When I read passages like this, it helps me to remember, that GOD is FULLY able to do what He has promised. It may appear that our bodies, our dreams, our relationships, or our hopes are "as good as dead", until we consider OUR GOD!
What dream has God given you? What has He promised you about your relationships? What has He whispered as a promise?
Take your eyes off your current situation and REMEMBER WHO GOD IS and WHAT HE HAS PROMISED.
Psalm 33:4-5 says, "For the word of the LORD is right and true; he is faithful in all he does. The LORD loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of his unfailing love." (NIV)
And because God is faithful we can declare that, "We (will) wait in hope for the LORD; (for) he is our help and our shield. In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. (And pray) May your unfailing love rest upon us, O LORD, even as we put our hope in you." (Ps 33:20-22, NIV)
Friends, let your hearts be encouraged...God will NOT abandon you. He sees you right where you are, and He is working ALL THINGS (the good and the not so good stuff of our lives) together for our GOOD! He can be trusted! His promises for your life will be fulfilled!!!
ON A PERSONAL NOTE, we move to Florida today. The movers will be here any minute. I will not post again until August 3rd. Please keep me and my family in your prayers during this exciting period of fulfillment! Ministry awaits, along with challenges, and a lot of unknowns...BUT...I am confident in God's provision and promises.
I hope you see the Glory of the Lord all around you during your move. Look to Him for your strength - He is with you where ever you are!
ReplyDeleteI'll be praying for you!
Love,
Julie
Praying for you this morning Julie. He is faithful! Safe travels sweet friend.
ReplyDeleteAbraham is the Father of Chritianity and Islam; When Ishmael (the eldest) did not inherit all of Abraham's possessions he left as Sarah insisted that Isaac be the benefactor of what normally goes to the eldest son. As Ishmael left dejected by his father Abraham he came back to be with Isaac and to helpo Isaac with the busial of Abrahma, this would be the last time the two would see each other. Isaac - Chritianity Ishmael - Islam. We will one day know all mysteries and to me this is one of God's mysteries to his people.
ReplyDeleteAutry
Julie and Melissa...thank you for your prayers. We arrived safely and I LOVE FLORIDA! It feels so good being in the center of God's will!
ReplyDeleteAutry...indeed God is the God of mysteries. I am so thankful for His grace and mercy...because if it were up to me...to have to understand everything...well...let's just say I'd be in a heep of trouble! Praying for you and Betty! Hope you are doing well. We sure would love to see you. So if you ever come this way...let us know! :)