Courage For 2023.

 

A very wise and Godly man once told me, "There is only one correct interpretation of scripture. If you and I disagree on the meaning of a portion of God's Word it can mean that I am right and you are wrong, or that you are right and I am wrong, or we are both wrong." Those insightful words inspired me to always search for truth not confirmation of something I already believe.

In these difficult days, discernment and wisdom are vital tools. We need these gifts to guide us through each day, so we are led by indisputable truth rather than a convenient truth. I rarely speak of what has been referred to as "The Great Awakening", but I am well aware of it and have experienced my own inner stirrings and eye-opening, heart wrenching awareness of the truth around me. 

I clearly remember when it first began. It was a summer evening in 2015. This is NOT a political post, but it does include a politician of the day. I was a "Never Trumper" and was frustrated by what I saw as unsavory politics. Yet, I had discussions with my husband about the need for someone who could speak for the people. I groused about there being no way for simple folks like us to be heard by the people in power. And then, while listening to Donald Trump on a news clip it was as if a veil was removed from my eyes. I suddenly and clearly saw him as the voice for the people that I had been longing for. I only share this because it was the beginning of my coming awake to the reality of our evil earthly experience. 

Evil had possessed our society in every arena for centuries, and like so many others, I was unaware. I knew intellectually that evil exists but had not fully opened my eyes to how real it is. I didn't grasp the depth of its hold on society.

It's interesting and terrifying to know that while we are blind, we don't know that we can't see. We have been thoroughly deceived. 

While we are lost how do we find our way? First, we cry out to God, then quiet our hearts and minds and listen. And be willing to admit that we might be wrong about something we hold dear. Do not claim to have all the answers. Each day seek God's truth while lightly holding onto our own truth. Trust the Holy Spirit who dwells within us.

It is my belief that difficult days lie ahead. I don't know for how long or how challenging they will be, but life's experiences have taught me that we are not alone. The Father is with us and always has been. He knew all of our story even before we'd taken a single breath. 

As we step into 2023 taken hold of courage and faith, be ready for change. I pray that each of you will discover a confidence you didn't know you possessed and feel the peace and love of our Creator who cares for us and will lead us along a path of His choosing. 

Do not be afraid. Be wise as a serpent and gentle as a dove.  Our Father knows where we are going. Cling to Him.

Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie

Too Scared to Move?

Eek! I could barely look at the photos as I searched to find just the right one. I really do not like heights, and I can assure you I will never find myself on a cliff like this. But I wanted to give you the idea ... you're frozen, are afraid to move, even an inch. But God says, "Go. You've got this."

What do we do? Will we let our fear cripple us? Will we remain immovable, or will we trust and allow God to guide us?

I've been there. And I hate it. Being stuck is always a struggle. It's not easy to find the right answer and let go of fear. Questions assail us. What if this is not the right thing to do? Am I hearing God right? Have I misjudged the calling? What if I fail? What if I let people down? What if I let God down?

It's a terrible thing to be afraid. I came across a saying a few days ago that comforted me, though.  

THERE'S NEVR BEEN A 

DAY WHEN GOD HAS 

PANICKED AND THOUGHT... 

SHE'S RUINED EVERYTHING.

I was so happy to read that. It reminded me that we can't ruin everything because God is in control. He has this thing, whatever it is, handled. We can take a risk. There is a beautiful adventure awaiting us, something that brings us joy and offers joy to others.

I'm not saying we should go off willy-nilly without a thought. We need to weigh things out and spend serious time talking it over with God, but ... 

There is a beautiful verse that speaks to this. Isaiah 41:13 says, "I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear, I will help you."

This verse makes me want to cry. I can see it. God takes my hand. I feel his sturdy, steady grip. He won't let me fall. He'll see me through whatever is required of me.

If we can just keep hold of that image, there is so much more we can do. Life is laid out before us, full of possibilities. We can still have a grand adventure. 

And we can make a difference.

Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie Leon