12/19/2016

​As many of you may know, my life as I have known it will change on 12/30/16.  On that day, my company will cease to be.  They made a corporate decision to close the doors.  I find myself once again on rough waters not real sure which way to row.
​These past few days I have pondered where I should go from here.  What are God's plans for me?  Where is He leading?  I have so many desires He has placed on my heart.  Many years ago, He placed two specific dreams in my heart.  Over the course of this time, He has confirmed these dreams through various ways and people.  I just have to sit back now and see which dream He is leading me towards, or maybe He is leading me towards a small part of each of them.  This both excites me and leaves me with a feeling of tripidation.  However, my eyes are always on Him.  My faith is stronger than any fear I may ever feel.
We come across items, people, songs, Bible verses, stories, etc., at just the right time.  I know God speaks to us through each of these things and many more.  I found this to be true today.  I came across a small article which I had cut out ... ​heaven only knows when ​... and it spoke volumes to me.  Now I would like to share it with you.  I know I am not the only one not sure of what the future holds, but we can all rest assured of who holds our future.  Enjoy ...
For His Time
​When South African pastor Andrew Murray was visiting England in 1895, he began to suffer pain from a previous back injury.  While he was recuperating, his hostess told him of a woman who was in great trouble and wanted to know if he had any counsel for her.  Murray said, "Give her this paper which I have been writing for my own encouragement.  It may be that she will find it helpful."  This is what Murray wrote:
​In time of trouble say:
First - God brought me here.  It is by His will I am in this strait place.  In that I will rest.
​Next - He will keep me in His love and give me grace in this trial to behave as His child.
​Then - He will make the trial a blessing, teaching me lessons He intends me to learn, and working in me the grace He means to bestow.
Last - In His good time He can bring me out again - how and when He knows.
​I am here - by God's appointment, in His keeping, under His training, for His time.
We want the instant solution, the quick fix, but some things cannot be disposed of so readily; they can only be accepted.  God will keep us by His love.  By His grace, we can rest in Him.  (David Roper)
Dear Lord, it's hard to endure times of illness and suffering (of any kind).  Comfort me and help me to trust You.
When God permits suffering, He also provides comfort.  (Refer to James 1:2-4)
​I hope if you are going through difficult times today that this brought you as much hope and peace as it has me.
​I could write a book on all the miracles God has blessed my life with over the past 17 years, since I first gave my heart to Him.  He freed me from much.  Some day I will write a book solely on all God has brought me through.  I am sure you could write the same book too if you truly thought about it.  May all glory be His!