“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.” – John 16:33
<Journal Entry 25 July 2011> About to land in Port au Prince for the 4th time this year. I thought that all had fallen into place, but things seem to be falling apart instead. Major problems with Haitian coordinator – meeting the realities of a culture that does not value the same things we do – or maybe they do and they are just more transparent – maybe they are just like us. Romans 3:23. <later that day> Arrived in Jacmel – met Joelle – a person of peace and one of the directors of the His Hands and Feet orphanage. Taking Martie through the Port au Prince airport was an experience they will not soon forget. [inside the airport is much like any airport – but when you step outside you step into chaos] <End of Entry>
“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.” – James 1:2-3
We were confident that Haiti was the place that the Lord had led us to. So why were we facing challenges as soon as we arrived? If God is with us. If He is sovereign, why does He not make the path He sets our feet on easy? Instead of walking in bare feet on a sandy beach, we find that we need the feet of a mountain goat to climb what is steep and rocky. I think that many Christians have the vision of smooth sailing in life only to discover that we must face great difficulty in this new life. We are not spared disappointment, loss, failure, broken hearts. As James wrote – it is all a test like steel in a forge – building faith through the fire. Galatians spells out what we can expect from the world.
“Now the works of the flesh are revealed, which are these: adultery, sexual immorality, impurity, indecency or obscenity; vulgar sexual character or behavior, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, strife, jealousy, rage, selfishness, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, carousing, and the like.” – Galatians 5:19-21
That is the world we were saved from and the world in which we are called to be a witness. And what is our response to be?
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and self-control; against such there is no law. Those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.” – Galatians 5:22-25
Our testing will result in the fruit of the Spirit being revealed in us. A stark contrast to the world’s response to trouble. Our old nature has been crucified with its passions and lust – but it remains waiting for the time when we will yield to it – take preference to it – seek it out. The point of this new life is not the promise of an easy, care-free life on earth – but the strength to endure whatever life might come our way as we navigate the steep and treacherous path our feet are on. Trusting in God and not ourselves for wisdom and strength. The only way we can be sure-footed in this life.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and depart from evil. It will be health to your body, and strength to your bones.” – Proverbs 3:5-8
Shine Bright my friend and glorify God with your life.
By Faith Alone By His Grace Alone And For His Glory Alone
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