Like everyone else!

There is so much going on! Time to enjoy and relax with the rest and peace that Jesus brings to you.  

Exodus chapter 2 verses 21-25.

Several years later the King of Egypt died. The Israelis were groaning beneath their burdens, in deep trouble because of their slavery, and weeping bitterly before the Lord. he heard their cries from heaven, and remembered His promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (to bring their descendants back into the land of Canaan). Looking down upon them, He knew the time had come for their rescue.

How many years has it been? Are you tired, weary and battle worn?  Are you grumpy and unsatisfied? Do you have an opinion about everything? Do you snap back when you do not get your own way? What is your story? Or do you think your not any different than anyone else? 

   God has one story and that is the story of Jesus and His saving grace for us. I remember the struggles I had when I decided to walk with Jesus. There were the healing struggles but also the emotional confusion of wanting to please God. His mercies astonished me, yet it was hard to let go of wants and desires. It was hard to let go of control and submit to kindness. Not just any kindness but the kindness of God. 

   His mercies began to show through, and others noticed but I also found the struggle with pride. It was not me but Him. God was different. Different because of Jesus and the feelings I was having. I had not considered God before, but now He is there. Others around me lived as I did. They may have feelings about God but it is not something talked about. Some people voiced their opinions about God, making catty remarks. 

   I would talk to my mom about God and she would encourage me to seek out a church. I was nervous, I did not want to be bombarded by holy people. I only wanted to attend a place where I could give praise to God surrounded by others who praised Him also. I liked my peace but at the same time I like to people watch and be involved. 

   Hey, all things should be at my pace and as I want them to happen. It was 4 years after I had picked up on reading the bible that I entered a church. I went to several churches before I found the one I wanted to attend. It's amazing to worship with others and hear the word of God spoken in encouragement. Now you have to fit in and get along. 

   In Romans chapter 12, Paul says, "Be glad for all God is planning for you. Be patient in trouble, and prayerful always. When God's children are in need, you be the one to help them out. And get into the habit of inviting guests home for dinner or, if they need lodging, for the night. If someone mistreats you because you are a Christian, do not curse him; pray that God will bless him. When others are happy, be happy with them. If they are sad, share their sorrow. Work happily together. Don't try to get into the good graces of important people, but enjoy the company of ordinary folks. And do not think you know it all! Do not pay back evil for evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honest clear through. Don't quarrel with anyone. Be at peace with everyone, just as much as possible. Dear friends, never avenge yourselves. Leave that to God, for He  has said that He will repay those who deserve it."

   Those are great words to live by but it takes a lot of discipline, training and patience. The idea behind a life with God is to focus on Him, give thanks to Him, worship Jesus so that He is known as your Savior and Messiah. Live with the Holy Spirit, trusting God to be your words, and actions. A close relationship with God takes time to develop. Its no longer about you, but about others, who may see God, Jesus and His love through you. 

   In the beginning of any relationship there is excitement and giddiness. Then it deepens into a love that withstands emotional stress as you both enjoy being together. God is no different. At first, His touch upon your life is wonderment and joyful. You are so grateful to Him, then over time you realize that you are His child, and He is caring for you. You talk with Him about everything and do nothing without Him. You think of Him because He has become first place in your life. Your spouse, your family, your work and everything else is a gift from Him. Even the roughest of times are easily forgiven because you live in His presence. 

   1 Peter chapter 5 verse 10 says, "After you have suffered a little while, our God, who is full of kindness through Christ, will give you His eternal glory. He personally will come and pick you up, and set you firmly in place, and make you stronger than ever."  

   To be different and free to enjoy the life you have, you need to see your life through new eyes. Jesus is your way to a life with God. God the creator of all you see and live in, wants you to see and live in the world He has created for you. Your happiness is His delight. 

   Thank You Father for Jesus. Thank You that we are not left alone to navigate through a maze of troubles and curves, but that You are there to take our hands and guide us as we see all that You love and care about. 😊

Exodus chapter 5 verse 9.

The Pharaoh said, "Load them with work and make them sweat; that will teach them to listen to Moses' and Aron's lies!"

1 Thessalonians chapter 5 verses 14-19.

Warn those who are lazy; comfort those who are frightened; take tender care of those who are weak; and be patient with everyone. See that no one pays back evil for evil, but always try to do good to each other and to everyone else. Always be joyful. Always keep on praying. No matter what happens, always be thankful, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. Do not smother the Holy Spirit. 

Colossians chapter 3 verses 12-15.

Since you have been chosen by God who has given you this new kind of life, and because of His deep love and concern for you, you should practice tenderhearted mercy and kindness to others. Do not worry about making a good impression on them but be ready to suffer quietly and patiently. Be gentle and ready to forgive; never hold grudges. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Most of all, let love guide your life, for the whole church will stay together in perfect harmony. Let the peace of heart which comes from Christ be always present in your hearts and lives, for this is your responsibility and privilege as members of His body. And always be thankful.