Last week we talked about having Forever Eyes.
Since then, a few things have happened that have certainly given me an opportunity to practice what I preach.
When I am the one who faces difficult circumstances or health issues, I don’t like it. But when it is loved ones or friends, I would rather it be me. I wonder why it is harder to put faith to work when it is someone else? Could it be that I can’t control those outcomes?
But, I can’t control the outcomes any better when I am the one directly affected. So what makes me feel worse when it’s loved ones who are suffering? When the outcomes are not predictable at all?
The mysteries of God in His dealings with us–!
It is God only who can control any situation, in or out of this world. He is gracious to give us what we consider good gifts. He is also gracious to give the “real” good gifts: those things that grow our character; that draw our eyes and thoughts to Him; things that we must admit that we are helpless to manage, and therefore, develop greater trust in Him.
So, even though the emotions probably don’t improve a whole lot, we can be sure that God is doing what is best for all of us. Our part is to trust Him for ourselves and those we love and care about. The Bible tells us that the “effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man (or woman) avails much.” So, realistically, we can’t fix or control anything on earth, but we can pray and that activates the forces of heaven for us and our loved ones.
And we can keep encouraging one another. God is at work. He never fails. He never leaves us.
Our God is about the business of growing our spirits and outfitting us to live in forever land.
“Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much” James 5:16.
Good word, Linda Jo. Encouragement all the way around. “But we can pray and that activates the forces of heaven…”. Amen! Thank you, friend.