Behold, the former things are come to pass, and new things do I declare: before they spring forth I tell you of them. Sing unto the Lord a new song, and his praise from the end of the earth. Isaiah 42:9-10
As we embark upon a new week, I can tell you what a difference a word makes. One word from the Lord can give you a new perspective on your life and your ministry. Over the weekend, it was like that for me. The Lord met me right where I was and because of that, I feel brand new. Yes, new! Sometimes, we need a refreshing; a direct word that you know came from the Lord; a word to let us know that we are on the right track, especially when everything around you seemingly is not going as you would like or think. Although, nothing happened in the physical realm, much took place in the spirit.
Not too many have had the pleasure of knowing my personal plight or the things that I've endured while on this journey, because I've never been one to share except on a need to know basis. So, when the Lord pointed out a few things, and some other concerns I've had, I was a bit taken aback. The Lord let me know that I was on the right path and that my steps were indeed ordered by Him (Psalm 37:23). Nothing that I was currently experiencing and had experienced was by happenstance. It has all been for my sake, and for the sake of the kingdom; all for my good and all things were working together for my good (Romans 8:28). Of course, I was thinking that I encourage myself with those words frequently but this time the words resonated in my spirit.
I often had a sense that my fire (i.e., trials, tribulations, and sufferings) just seemed hotter for some reason which caused me to cry uncontrollably on occasion, question myself and make me wonder if I was truly within the will of God. And even though I’ve noticed that I’ve not been burned or singed (well, just my pride) through this process, it caused me to think that I don’t even smell like what I’ve been through. Now, the Hebrew boys can testify about that because they knew all about going through the hot and fiery (Daniel 3). The word also tells me, "thus saith the Lord that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine. When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee. For I am the LORD thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour:" (Isaiah 43:1-3). Now, that's a word that I can stand on!
You might not see or understand what God is doing in your life, you may lay awake and cry or sometimes question if you are truly in the will of God because you don't understand His plan for you. Trust me when I say, if you are doing all that you know to do; praying, fasting, believing, and trusting God, you are undoubtedly on the right path. God is trying to build your faith, increase your endurance and strength, develop your character, and equip you for kingdom work. Just let Him continue to do a perfect work in you. Stay focused and be assured that He is with you every step of the way. It certainly may not feel good at times or look good from your perspective but please know that everything is working for your good and to God's glory.
Until the morning, be blessed,
Cynde
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