ARE WE THERE YET?!

Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.  Ephesians 3:20 NLT

There are days when things have been very difficult.  We, or a loved one, get a bad prognosis from the doctor, we suffer a financial setback, we endure a hurricane or earthquake that leaves us on the edge of survival or we feel helpless as our child suffers.  We have heard that God is working in our situation, and in us, for our good, but we internally shout, like little children, “Aren’t we there yet, Daddy?”  God’s love for us motivates his working to make us more beautiful and holy.  He is preparing us for Heaven.  But, if we are honest, some days we think, “Please, don’t love me so much!” 

In John 5:17 we find Jesus’ comment, “My Father is always working, and so am I.” As believers in Jesus, God’s Word in Romans 8:28 tells us that the Father is always working everything in our lives for our good according to his purposes.  We are told that Jesus is constantly battling for us, and interceding on our behalf before the Father.  God the Holy Spirit is continually working IN us, to purify us and realign us with God’s original plans and design. And we have the promise of Philippians 1:6, “And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.”

And our part?  Like little children, we obediently get into our Father’s “car”, the life he has planned for us before the beginning of time.  We learn all we can as we travel through it, and trust that Daddy knows best and will get us there safely. We gradually understand that during the “car time” with our God, we are growing to know him better and growing in our love for him, and in our ability to receive his grace and peace.  When we least expect it, we will reach our destination.  So, let’s be ready!

Pray with me: “Father God, forgive me for sometimes grumbling and complaining. I choose to trust in the truth that, even in the hard times, you are working in and around me for my good. I release all control to you and fall into your loving care. Teach me to love you and trust you more.  In Jesus’ precious name. Amen.”

Dear friend, be blessed as you discern God’s hand in your life.  As you understand where he is working, be blessed to join him and grow in joy as you partner in his work.  May the Lord provide all that you need for your journey.  Amen.
Mary Sumner
October 19, 2018