Steps for Difficult Days by Nancy Carlson
  1. Day One
  2. Day Two
  3. Day Three
  4. Day Four
  5. Day Five
  1. Day Six
  2. Day Seven
  3. Day Eight
  4. Day Nine
  5. Day Ten

Day 7: Something Beautiful

steps through difficult days

I've been aware of our Partners with their trials. My heart goes out to each and every one of you. I would like to say, as well, that God's hand is upon you to accomplish great and mighty things in your life - from glory to glory He's changing us. How well He know us for we are the works of His hands.

Yesterday, I was challenged "big time". I could hardly walk. The strength in my legs wasn't there.

When I was upset and on the verge of tears, I saw a scripture in my notes that spoke to me. 1 Thess. 3:13 It talks about The living person of Christ with His indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit is a life fully surrendered to God. Holiness consecrates us to God's service both in body and soul. It causes every component of our character to stand God's inspection and meet His approval.

The other scripture from Acts 17:2,3 spoke to me as well. It was talking about Jesus. Ought not Christ to have suffered…" I thought: Ought not I to be rejoicing of the crucifixion of my flesh?

For myself, I was afraid and my pride was being crucified. I don't like having to be dependent upon someone else nor do I like the feeling of helplessness! The medicine, I take, I was told, causes me to gain weight. I certainly did not need that!
The list could go on and on! I needed to surrender it all into His hands.

I have been asking for a countenance of joy as I walk hand in hand with my Lord. We're never alone. He is always with us and furthermore, He suffered it all - already for us. He knows what we are going through. For the joy that was before Him, Christ endured!

As I was reflecting upon it today, laughter began to surface. The joy of the Lord is my strength!

Through our challenges He's creating someone beautiful - a resurrected life in Him! Praise His name for His faithfulness..

Something to Ponder:

I said earlier: Ought not we to suffer…by His GRACE, I can say "Why not?"

God has beautiful plans and purposes for each one of you to fulfill. You have been chosen. The experiencing of your faith is being walked out and the essence of His love and power is coming forth from you. All for His glory.

He endured for the joy that was before Him. What joy He experiences as He sees us yielded to Him and walking with Him. In His presence - becoming the man or woman He prepared you to be in Him.

Something beautiful
Something good
All my confusion
He understood
All I had to offer Him
Was brokenness and pride
But, He's making
Something beautiful
Of my life.


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