Wednesday, August 20, 2008

God is Good.

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything" (James 1:2-5).

God often allows pain to ignite destiny in our lives. Without motivation, many of us would never fulfill the purposes for which God created us. Oftentimes a measured assault invades our life and creates a depth of pain that all we know to do is press into God with all our being.

The above verse and quote came in an e-mail devotion this morning. I don't often get as sick as I have been the last few days. At one point over the weekend, I asked God if this was some sort of attack right before this trip.

This morning, I woke up feeling physically stronger and somewhat spiritually stronger. Over the past few weeks, I've been asking God to prepare me for the message He has for me to receive this weekend. I didn't want to just show up for a good time, I want to meet Him there.

At some point, I felt like God was saying to my heart..."Look for me before the conference too...don't miss me today because you are looking ahead to the Fiesta."

I have tried to make a concentrated effort to listen harder to Him the past few weeks, and He has been speaking in themes all around me. I just love it when He does that. That's why I'm thankful that I have been sick.

Being sick has forced me to be totally dependant on God. It's almost exactly 24 hours before my plane leaves. I have not packed the first thing...in fact, I'm still doing laundry. THIS IS TOTALLY UNLIKE ME.

God has forced me to take my hands off of this week. I have been dependant on HIM to give me the strength to homeschool the girls, do the laundry, clean the house...you get the idea... God used this stomach bug to remind me that I can't take a step without Him.

Like I said earlier in the week, as eager and excite as I am to finally meet so many of you, I'm more excited about receiving the message God has for me.

I keep thinking that "this will be my last post before I leave" and this time...I really think it is!!

I'll be back Monday with pictures and a heart full of stuff to share!

Blessings...

8 comments:

2nd Cup of Coffee said...

First time here. My best friend has Celiac's, and I watch her deal with life all the time. But since she changed her diet, her life has turned around. I just want to say that I know (sort of) about the struggles with the tummy--it's not easy. I'm glad you've not hardened your heart toward God, even though suffering is a part of your every day in some capacity. Have fun this weekend.

jenmom said...

I absolutely can't wait to hug your sweet neck girl!!!! I am going to email you my cell phone number and I certainly hope we can meet up!!! I am flying in on Friday. Patty is picking me up at the airport and I will be at the lunch!!!!!
I am anticipating our Lord this weekend as well and the victory He is going to bring to so many lives hungry for HIM.

Anonymous said...

I'm so happy that you are feeling better and are going to this! I can't wait to read all about it. Also, if you were wondering there is no baby yet! We have about a week until my due date so we are down to the wire! Have a WONDERFUL time!!!! -Haley

Heather said...

I can't wait to hear all about it! Know that I am praying for you!
Thanks for sharing that devo- I needed to read that!

Fran said...

SEe you there my friend!! I'll see you with my own two eyes!!!

Praising Him in advance! And, still not packed.

Love you,
Fran

God's girl said...

Hope you had such a blessed time. Cannot wait to see pics!
Love you girl and amen to that post.
ANgela

Anonymous said...

I can't wait to hear your weekend recap! Be safe and have a GREAT time!!!

Carol said...

I'm praying for you!!! Can't wait to hear all about it!