Precious Promises

There is no better known symbol of precious stones than the diamond. But of even greater value are God’s promises in the middle of the real struggles in our lives. Peter writes these words as he faces the end of his own life at the hands of executioners. He looks back for a moment remembering how at the Lord’s invitation he had walked on water. In his mind he still sees the fish and loaves multiplied for 5,000 and a blind man by the roadside receiving sight. He could still recall his own tears when Jesus had looked at him while words of denial echoed in his mouth. Then only a few days later Jesus met with him to renew His promise that Peter was still loved and had been specially chosen to care for people just like us. How amazing and precious are these promises that Peter now passes on to us!

This is a Test

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.  And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. James 1:2-4

A faith test is one of those tests I really want to pass but don’t so much like to prepare for. I far prefer floating quietly on my back in the pool on sunny days; to long sleepless nights when recovering from surgery. But on those painful nights when I am crying out to God  and  desperately need His help I find a faith that sees  in darkness the joy of restoration and trust. I hate those storms while they are rocking my boat but I love the assurance I have found. Jesus is my anchor and He will keep me safe to me to the end!

1558014016876_16906084-1.jpg

 

Doctor Jesus!

Today I was thinking of a lady at the church my father attended many years ago, who would go to the altar and pray with such intensity that I can still remember her conversation with God. “Doctor Jesus I ask you to heal today! Doctor Jesus Heal today!” I really don’t know a single other thing about Rose but her honesty at the altar stuck in my memory because she was telling God she had a problem but she was also trusting in him to take care of it.

1555239721580_image.jpg

Like Rose on those days when I admit to God exactly how I really feel instead of pretending everything is okay I also find out that He is ready to help me to take the first step on His healing journey. My real and true acceptance that God’s grace is all I’m going to need is when I sign the release form for the heart transplant that only Doctor Jesus is able to perform!