Refreshed

After dealing with a severe chest congestion for the past couples months, I'm finally beginning to feel "some" better. It's been rough and some days seemed to never end. The constant cough would drain all my energy. But on those days when I didn't feel much like doing anything I found the Lord giving me strength to complete His work. One Sunday morning I got on my knees in my office and reminded Jesus that I couldn't preach if I couldn't speak. I knew that God had a message for me to share with His church and when it was time to preach my voice would be there. It was! As I walked to the pulpit my voice was restored. Another time I was to sing at a "Going Home" service for a dear precious saint. She passed earlier in the week and I was asked if I could be there. I couldn't and I didn't say no although I knew how sick I was. My sister asked me the morning of the funeral how I was going to sing. For me the answer was simply "I'm leaving that up to God." I remember praying that God would use the words of the old hymn to bless someone. The strum of my guitar prepared hearts for the voices and words that followed and God was glorified!

I tell you all that to say this. Trust God to use you and never doubt His presence with you. When you are pulled under by the waves of this world, reach out for the hand of Jesus. Remember the words of truth that the Apostle Paul received from Jesus and claim them for your own.

"And he [Jesus] said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness..." (2Cor 12:9a)

When we live our lives in the "Grace" of Jesus, we too can respond as Paul (no matter what life has to offer us).

Paul said, "Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me." (2 Cor 12:9b)

Lord Jesus, Thank you for your continuing grace and strenght which You supply to us daily. Glorify yourself through us today. In the name of the ONE. Amen.