Iron Sharpens Iron

Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. (ESV)

I actually wrote this blog and hit the wrong button - so I need to re-write it - but I can't remember exactly what I said before -so God must have something different for me to write.

Last night was small group - what a blessing it is to meet with these women! They are so accepting and encouraging. Not everyone could get together last night and they were missed. Sometimes it is easier not to show up than to go there. Life gets in the way. We have all been there (and will be at some time again).

I say it is can be easier not to GO there. I will not say that it is easier not to BE there - it isn't. The time of sharing - our hurts, our hopes, or just where we are - is so important! But even more so is the time we spend "gnawing" on God's word! When we were deciding what to study this Fall - my initial reaction was a "Bible Study" but we decided to continue to work through the Sunday sermon. Last Spring, we worked in advance of the weekly sermon but I am really liking the focus on the previous Sunday's sermon.

So often we go to church on Sunday - greet friends, listen to/sing along with the music, and nod in agreement to the preacher's message. Then we go home. Life gets in the way again - almost as soon as we leave the church grounds. But with the small group discussing the message again on Wednesdays, it is like honing a knife. We are the knife (sword) and God's scripture is the honing stone. As a group, our reasoning together provides the motion of back and forth rubbing on that stone. And we get sharper.

I feel sharper today! But I know my knife dulls quickly - I need to keep the honing stone near by.

Hiding from God

The sermon on Sunday concerned Hiding from God. Of course, I skipped service that day. I still needed to listen to it since small group is tonight and we discuss the sermon, look at the related scripture etc. I must say - Mitchel Lee is one of the most outstanding preachers I've ever heard! Honestly! No Kidding! He is personable, educated, and usually dead-on target. But it is never "Hey look at me - I am doing it so right - you can too!" =- nope - his thread is always "Look at Jesus -he does it so right and covers you in your sin!". Glad I listened! I dont' know that I am hiding from God but I do think that I ignore Him. But it can't last long- the ignoring part. He has a wonderful way of showing up in life - specifically my life. Recently I have noticed that He just shows up - smile on His face - happy to see me and to re-assure me that He still loves me. No screaming that I missed church (again!) - no pouting that I am not spending time pouring over His scriptures. Nope, just a quick hug that says "I love you and miss you!".

thanks Jesus! em

Trust

I've been struggling with trust lately. How do I demonstrate trust? Specifically, when we are called to trust God - how should that be demonstrated? Does it mean to sit still and watch the events unfold? Does it mean go forward with your actions and hope/trust that it is in alignment with God's will?

I grew up in a family with the motto - God helps those who help themselves. I don't know if I totally believe that motto - but if action is believe - then maybe I do.

I know that God knows what I want, I know too that He wants us to ask for what we need/want but to ultimately accept that He knows better and may decide in a different direction. Sometimes He lets us have what we want and let the consquences teach us.

I've done what I can (in regards to a work situtation) - I do think it is time to just sit back. When the results are revealed - I want to accept and move forward. I am trusting that God will help me do so!