Drawing Near

Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.

I don’t know how I would make it through life without my faith; I don’t know how I would not break under the strain Satan brings in this world; I do not know how I would not crack under the pressures of the trials of life. All the world expects by it’s own standards are challenged by it’s own standards. All this world breeds about success is challenged by the expectancy of the requirements to obtain it. I have heard in recent days of success bred business plans, and I have heard of the monetary driven potential in them. Even in my pursuit of simplifying and expansion, it is read as chasing the American Dream of success. My definition of success is not the American Dream. My definition of success is at the end of my life bowing before my Lord Jesus and hearing these words of Matthew 25:21 His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’

I received the results of my shoulder MRI yesterday and they were much worse than expected. The recovery time is measured in months and not weeks. This puts an incredible burden on the operation, sustainability, and financial responsibility of myself, my company, families, and customers alike. The world screams at me for the weight of all of these it is laying on my shoulders, (pun intended), while I am out of work for three to six months. Satan wants to slam me with anxiety rooted in the fear of the unknown. Satan wants me to think collapse of all that I have and somewhat desire in life. God wants me to rest in Romans 8:28. God has shown up financially in ways that only he can; those close to me are in awe of it just like I am. He always provides just when the money runs out by the world standards in ways that are not worldly. The proof of Himself found in faith, with a means measured by the world.

Many of my Christian friends have been, and are enduring incredible trials of life. I have seen their faith grow and knowingly understand that God has used them to encourage others outside of the faith, or those weak in their faith. So many false prophets today are preaching from pulpits success by worldly standards; preaching prosperity gospels that tell you your faith is measure by your worldly success; if you don’t have enough faith, you worn’t have enough “stuff.” Jesus never said that anywhere in the Bible. Jesus said take up your cross and follow me and life will be tough for your short time here but you will be blessed ETERNALLY. John 16:33 These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” Today let whatever God has designed or allowed in your life to draw you closer to him. I promise you that is the purpose of whatever you are struggling with at any level; drawing closer to God.