I am still up to my neck in the learning curve at my new job, and I confess that I am somewhat disappointed in myself and my dependence on a fleshly perspective.
Issues that impact my flesh:
- Recreation
- Sleep
- Food
- Pain/suffering
Issues that impact eternity:
- Knowing God's Word
- Believing God's Word
- Obeying God's Word
- Living a Spirit filled Christ centered life
I know that a steady habit of reading, understanding and believing God's Word has a temporal and eternal effect on me, but I also know that sleep, pain, recreation, food etc. have a very real and profound temporal effect on me.
The issue I am struggling with is my own human suffering. I am aware that far too many believers around the world are deprived of the very same temporal needs that I hold so dear, and my troubles pale next to theirs. I have not been completely deprived of food, nor have I been brutally tortured, I have experienced a reduction in my own personal comfort. My response to that reduction is quite honestly "fleshly". Fear, and discontentment, have been a "log" in my eye.
I can't remove that log myself. I need a great physician, with a steady and loving touch. I thank God that Jesus is alive and I can know him through the bible. I thank Jesus for sending the Spirit to help me obey Him. I look forward to the day when, through death or rapture, according to God's perfect will and by His mercy, that I'll be with Him, perfected in eternity, no longer engaged in a battle with my own flesh, and God will rescue those believers who experience extreme suffering and they will find everlasting relief in His arms.
Until next time
David
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1 comments:
You're dealing with a lot of tough changes which can take a toll physically and emotionally. Though Paul was writing about his own "thorn in the flesh", at the risk of pulling one verse out of the context, I believe the following passage applies to all of life's challenges. I pray that God will enable you to best know how to allow His grace and strength to be made manifest in the midst of the challenges you are facing.
2 Corinthians 12:9 (KJV) And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
I'm remembering you in prayer.
With love, :)
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