How it Really Is

Human nature is a fickle thing. Can you see the older, wiser grandma wagging her finger and warning with her words, “there is a fine line between love and hate.” In our world today it seems more true than ever! When things are going well – enough money in the bank account, young, thin, beautiful, energized – friends abound and love is alive and well. Let life bring the hardships – then you find out who you’re friends really are, and if the commitment to love really holds.

As a rule, people believe what they see. Just like in Acts 28, when Paul and the crew who should have all been killed were spared by the mercy of God. Here they are, swimming to shore, or clinging to boards and pieces of the boat until they can reach the island of Malta. The natives of the island are kind enough, having compassion, taking pity on their obvious need.

Here comes Paul, gathering sticks to put on the fire when a poisonous snake strikes from within the wood. How quickly the people turn from compassion to judging. They didn’t even try to help him at this point. They were sure he had murdered someone and was getting just desserts.

They watched him for quite a long time – and, when the normal results of such a snake bite weren’t taking place, just as quickly, their humanity took them from judging to presumption – he must be a god!

The fact of the matter is all of these human emotions didn’t lead them to the real facts. The fact was that the very appearance of these strangers on the island was the mercy of God! Even if they were shipwrecked.

The fact was Paul was on mission for Christ and NOTHING would be allowed to stop him. Detain him – yes. Deter him – no.

The fact was Paul possessed One within him who was greater than anything in the world. Was Paul a god? NO! But he was carrying the Message within him of a God who loved so much He sent Jesus – not only to the Jews, but also to the Gentiles.

Does life for you today seem to be “spinning out of control?” Trust in the fact that God loves you! Remember He IS still in control. He has a purpose for you within His plan. Your surrender to Him allows Him to fulfill His purpose in you. You may be delayed – but His will won’t be deterred! He will be faithful to complete it in you! (Philippians 1:6)

Are your burdens too big to share with others – or are you feeling misunderstood? Trust in the fact that our God knows ALL and when we cast our burdens on Him He has promised to sustain us! (Psalm 55:22)

Keep on your mission! Share Christ with your world knowing, GREATER is HE that is in you that he that is in the world. (I John 4:4)

Human nature is fickle, but God’s fact is final. Keep the faith!

By: Janene A. Dubbeld/FGG

Take it with You

Then Jesus told him, "Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed." John 20:29