It has been a long time since I have posted, but that is due to a lack of time more than it is a lack of thought. I know that is hard to believe for some of you, but it is true. I do have a few minutes this morning, though, and thought I would try to get down what I believe God has been showing me in the last month or so.
Like many of you, I have been tuned in to what is going on in our nation. President Obama and the Democrats are attempting to pass a health care bill that is, at best, controversial. The Republicans and conservatives, naturally, oppose it. There has been a lot of turmoil in Washington D.C. The economy continues to drag and there is widespread concern about jobs and money. A few people I know are doing as well or better than ever, but most are just hanging in there, hoping things improve. On a personal level, I am still seeking what God will have me do next. Jobs in all areas are not a plentiful as I had hoped. It is an uncertain time. What is true for me is true for others, too. I know quite a few people who are facing tough times. I believe it is easy, in times like these, to lose sight of Jesus Christ.
Last Sunday night I was reading in the Psalms and came across Psalm 40. It is a psalm that David writes expressing his desire to do God's will. The whole psalm was refreshing to me, but the part that stood out the most was the first part of verse four. There David writes, "Blessed is the man who makes the Lord his trust..." That resonated with me. Through the winds of uncertainty and the storms of doubt, this verse is a call to trust. "Don't give up." "Don't waver." "Don't quit." I realize that I am not in control of my situation. I firmly believe that the Lord called me to this place. I am equally convinced that he will not abandon me. I hope that you can share that confidence, too. The Lord didn't bring about the hardship you face, but he can see you through it. Trust. The Lord didn't cause the illness, but he is the Great Physician. Trust.
The situations in which we find ourselves can cause anxiety and erode confidence. I think there are times when we can even forget that Jesus Christ is with us. I was also reading last night in Luke 24. The crucifixion has taken place and the apostles are in hiding. Disappointment hangs heavy in the air. Cleopas and another are walking to the village of Emmaus. The discussion is on what might have been. A stranger joins them and...you know the rest. They were so down that they didn't realize that Lord was right with them. I've read that before, but it took on new meaning for me recently. Jesus Christ is with me even when I struggle. He is there when I am tying to figure out my place in a new environment. He is always there. He is there for you, too. He is there when you are hurting. He is there when life stinks. He is there when life is good, too.
I am encouraged to look for Jesus and I hope you will be, too. Thanks for reading...
