cover us

I love having a HAPPY blog...

but I realize in one breath, all that I live for in this earthly life could be gone. That is reality, and that is ok.

By understanding God's wonderful Grace, it gives us the privledge to live a life of joy because we know that amidst the trial, sufferings, and hardships, there IS something greater, so much greater to look forward to as we enter eternity, a life with our Savior...a life FREE of ALL hurt.

So while it is wonderful to post each day about the happiness of each day I am honored to live, there is suffering in my life, there is suffering in everyone's life. I have several people who are close to me or close to my family who are suffering today, been through a time of hurt, or are just in need of PRAYER. I am lifting them up today.

As I was thinking of them. God and His infinite attention to detail, led me to such peace. One of my favorite women of faith is Elisabeth Elliot. I try to read her daily devotional each day that I remember, and today, her words were very dear to my heart.

Here are her comforting words from scripture:

For the Lord who loves you suffered and wants you to fellowship with Himself. The joy of thus knowing Him comes not in spite of but because of suffering, just as resurrection comes out of death. I have a Savior because I am a sinner, and beauty is given the child of God in exchange for ashes.

We want to avoid suffering, death, sin, ashes. But we live in a world crushed and broken and torn, a world God Himself visited to redeem. We receive his poured-out life, and being allowed the high privilege of suffering with Him, may then pour ourselves out for others.

How can one's illness help another? By being offered to Him who can transform it into blessing.

"You have been granted the privilege not only of believing in Christ but also of suffering for Him" (Phil 1:29 NEB).

Lastly, I want you to listen to this song from Bebo Norman. I have always thought his voice was different and sounded so sincere. I struggle with the realities of life some days, and you know, I believe that salvation is quite simple. You dont have to understand it, just by believing, and asking for forgiveness... and try each day not to be a good person, but to live knowing that his Grace is what saves you, not you. This song is the prayer of my heart today and I urge it to be yours and see what God does in your life. Pray it as you sing, or just pray for God to COVER YOU, THOSE YOU LOVE, AND COVER YOUR LIFE.

Now....whatever is happening in your life...ask God to cover you....and go find your JOY today!