"And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified. What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?
He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth. Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?
As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." - Romans 8:29 - 39Wow, what a difference a year makes! I almost can't believe it myself, but this time last year I was in a serious crisis. I was forced to deal with the consequences of some really bad choices that I made. Pregnant, homeless, emotionally-wounded, heart-broken and bitter, I was in a serious rut. I felt like my world was closing in on me, but I thank God that I never lost my faith.
A few months later, a Christian woman's shelter, a miscarriage, a Christian authors group and lots of prayer warriors pushed me to seek God during this difficult period. What a journey! Here I am a year later with a renewed commitment to Christ, strengthened faith, and a new zeal for life.
Rooted in His Word, I am overcoming by faith and determined to move forward in the call of God on my life. I have to admit things are still tough for me. Yet, God's grace has been sufficient in making provision for me. He is - as He did during that crisis moment - supplying my every need. I thank God that I am definitely in a different space - mentally, spiritually and physically - than I was this time last year. He is restoring my life and making ALL things new!
As I reflect on that experience one year later, I realize that I would never wish that sort of turmoil on anyone - not even my worst enemy - nor would I want to encounter such pain and disappointment again. I am so grateful that God brought me through the fire. He brought me through the storm. I can't say that I understand everything that happened, but I can say - without a doubt - that the experience strengthened my resolve and my faith. I never thought I would say this, but I am a better woman because of it. To God be the Glory!
So to those of you who are reading this and struggling through your own crisis moment, know that you are not alone. Whatever you are facing - a failed marriage, unemployment, bankruptcy, the loss of a loved one, bad health, or the consequences of a bad decision - please know that God is faithful. His grace is sufficient to carry you through. Release it to Him, and push pass the embarrassment. Push pass the hurt. Push pass the sorrow, and look to Him. Cast your cares on Him. Surrender it all to Him! He will make a way.
Get on your knees, cry if you have to, but don't you give up! Keep P.U.S.H.ing (praying until something happens). Keep believing in God. Keep trusting in Him. Cling to your faith, and stand firm on the promises of His Holy Word (The Holy Bible). Nothing can separate you from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus.
You might get funny looks. You might be the butt of a lot of cruel jokes or even the headline in the latest gossip. You might feel like the scum of the earth, but guess what! None of that matters! Ignore how you feel, and trust in God's truth. You might even fall out of grace with your church and/or biological family. Guess what again? You are still more than a conqueror. Remember, if God be for you, it doesn't matter who is against you! The only thing that matters is your salvation and your willingness to repent and move forward in the fullness of God's mercy and grace.
So, what are you waiting for? Put on the Armor of God and realign yourself with His Holy Word. Surrender the pain to the Lord, and renew your commitment to Him. Seek Christian counseling and do what you must to find a positive outlet to release the guilt, humiliation, shame, fear, pain and/or anger. Meditate daily on God's word and fast to discipline your body, mind and soul. Call on God. He, alone, can break the chains of bondage, self-sabotage and self-doubt that is running rampant in your life.
It's time to let go and let God do what no one else can. Turn it over to Him. Then, walk, run, dance, shout and LIVE in the freedom and fullness of God's saving grace! I know I am!
