November 17th
The Beauty in the Ashes
Some wonder if any "good" can some out of such horrible experiences of life. Life seems to "throw a curve" at them - there is heartache, pain, loss, destruction, misery, setback - - etc.
While the answer is "yes" (most would acknowledge this) the reality of it is hard to come by. But, my friend, (as I tell myself often) may I suggest to you that this is TRUTH.
May I illustrate it this way? Remember Vesuvius? The soil of the vineyards on the slopes of Vesuvius is disintegrated lava. That's right! Lava. The richest grapes, from which a precious wine is made, grow on the PRODUCT OF ERUPTIONS. Eruptions which actually tore the mountain apart - and made the sky black.
So, it is, my friend, that the "costiest" character has been grown in a heart that has suffered looses - a heart that has been "torn" by troubles.
If many of your dreams have gone up in smoke; if many of your desires have been burned away, then the word in Isaiah 61:3 is for you.
"He gives beauty for ashes."The verse goes on to say that He bestows beauty instead of ashes that he gives the oil of gladness instead of mourning and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. Can you faith that?
Prayer
Lord, I ask that this one be encouraged through a possible situation - like the eruption of a volcano. May they grow "grapes" in a "hard time soil" in the name of Jesus.
Amen