Things are not always what they appear

Things are not always what they appear. When we are going through trials, times of confusion or even suffering, God may have a purpose we just can’t see. So don’t cave into the sometimes dismal appearance of circumstances. Instead anticipate what God will do through those circumstances. Secondly, during those times don’t be discouraged when you have to wait for God to answer. His wisdom is perfect and so is His timing. He sees the whole picture when we see only a bit of it. Trust God that He has a purpose in the delay. And thirdly, don’t be one who always assumes the worst. Instead, try to see the possibility of what God can do, and be ready to embrace it when it comes.

God is in control. He loves us with an infinite, unconditional love.  And He never makes a mistake. In short, we can trust God, even when we don’t understand everything.

I read this today and it made me think back to April 2001 when I was charged and indicted for manufacturing meth. Feeling sorry for myself at the time because we had been caught and got in trouble while people we knew were still using . I didn't understand and thought we were the most unlucky people in the world and that God ( I believed in HIM although I did not know HIM at all then) must hate us for letting this happen. It just seemed so unfair.

Wow what a difference  eleven years make :)) Now I see he had a purpose for all of this and he allowed all of those things to happen so he could save me and be glorified. I almost  have 10 years clean , July 15 , 2012 will be 10 years,  because of his mercy and grace in stopping me from my destructive path by locking me up. Those other people I referred to are still struggling , some have died in their addiction, some are in prison for long sentences, and their children have not been able to witness the transformational power of God in their mother's life.

Now I know I was the lucky one, well of course it wasn't luck because God is completely sovereign over everything and for some reason he picked me, that is what is so humbling. I am so very undeserving and he still chose me . It was always all part of HIS plan and I don't know why he set me apart from my other friends using but I get down on my knees and thank him everyday  for stopping me, loving me , and choosing me to share his story of redemption in my life.

Things are not always what they appear- always remember that !!

Romans 5

New King James Version (NKJV)

Faith Triumphs in Trouble

³ And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; ⁴ and perseverance, character; and character, hope. ⁵ Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

Comments

[Patti Gilpin]

You are very real and very telling in what you share. It is so true that even I know....that Victory over our Trials may Bear Witness to His Mercy and Glory. Sort of, I thought, that Prayer, was manipulative. As if, Yay! Do everything I want and I will give you credit, God ! It doesn't work that way, by the way. It is organic and fundamental to one's surrender to God's Way, God's Timing and God's people, places and things. All of which are wondrous once you Relax and Realize Who is in Charge ! Glory Be !

Congratulations, Susan! God Bless You
as God has Blessed Us with You...
Every Step of the Way...YaY!

xoxo :D