Three weeks ago, I started a Bible Study and I've been overwhelmed at times with it. I don't mean that in a negative way, it strictly positive. Months ago, I started looking for a Bible Study to get involved in and then this one came up. I obviously didn't know all that it entailed before it began or I probably would have never entertained the idea of it. I prayed that God would not only lead me to a Bible Study that would benefit me, but that God would also be in the details of it all. Things like speaking out load in a group, parking at the venue, time & lifestyle requirements it would have, and my abandonment to Christ and the nurturing of that relationship.
Well on the first night, I showed up a little early (I'm neurotic about being on time). I quickly learned that this Bible Study wasn't as I'd expected. I'd heard of a Bible Study by this title & assumed it was a different one, but I was wrong. The Bible Study is First Place 4 Health. It focuses on Daily Victory, Daily Joy and also has a focus on having a healthy balance in all areas of your life, while putting Christ first. I was intimidated by the rituals of weighing in, being measured & photographed for record keeping purposes. By the end of the evening, it was all crystal clear to me what this Bible Study entailed. I came home and began a lot of internal dialogue about whether this was right for me. I tossed and turned all night long (Thank You Satan!) I finally came to the decision that I had asked God for a path and I was ready for wherever it lead. Here's a bit of what I've come to discover so far... what a journey. As part of this Bible Study we are encouraged to spend additional time in God's word and one day as I read through Philippians, I came across a sobering passage that really made me think. It's a challenge to me, no longer should I flirt with feeling sorry for myself for the path a brain tumor left through me and my family, I have to rejoice in it. Use the journey to share God's love and plan for each of us. I've been a Christian for a long time, but never before has scripture seemed so alive and exciting to me. Its not just old stories, but helpful, accountable, and loving words intended to speak truth of God.
Let this scripture be my prayer: May I allow God to use a tough situation to help others. I would be so humbled and I can't wait where that Journey leads. Praise God I'm on it and He saved me!
Philippians 1:12-20
Paul’s Chains Advance the Gospel
New International Version (NIV)
12 Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters,[a] that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. 13 As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard[b] and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. 14 And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear.
15 It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. 16 The latter do so out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. 17 The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. 18 But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.
Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, 19 for I know that through your prayers and God’s provision of the Spirit of Jesus Christ what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance.[c] 20 I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.
15 It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. 16 The latter do so out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. 17 The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. 18 But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.
Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, 19 for I know that through your prayers and God’s provision of the Spirit of Jesus Christ what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance.[c] 20 I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.
So in response I say... I am a vessel, use me!
Blessings
I love how God always meets our needs and so many of our wants! I am blessed to know He loves me and can use our weakness' and infirmaties (sp?)for His kingdom's advancement. Your healing has been an inspiration to many of us. Thank you for letting God use you!
ReplyDeleteSandi -
ReplyDeleteThank you for your kind words. I know its because of prayers from folks like you & Trig and many other and our Amazing Heavenly Father that I am here and doing so well. All the praise goes to HIM.