weight 2.0 (Photo credit: Esthr)
Well, I have lost 15 pounds now. It has been more difficult than I thought, but I have made progress on the weight scale, anyways.
I am not so sure that I have increased my weight on the spiritual scale, and just how would one measure that? I don’t believe it is as simple as setting aside time for prayer and Bible study, important as that may be.
We are, right now, experiencing a difficult trial that is altering once again our family’s course. Though very painful, both my wife and I recognize that the Lord is desiring to use this circumstance to mold us into Christ’s likeness. There is nothing more important.
Therefore, I am willing to be misunderstood, willing to have my reputation marred, and willing to receive whatever else it takes to produce Christ in me. I do not think that I would have had this attitude to our current situation before Jesse’s suffering and death. Does that qualify as increased weight on the spiritual scale? I’ll leave that judgement up to God. I am content with that. He is very merciful, after all.
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My prayers to you and your family as you go through this trial. May Christ be formed in you through whatever God allows in order to mold you into His character. Congratulations on your success. I have not been as successful. I was convicted again just yesterday of how much I rely on food instead of God to try to sooth my emotions. Blessings. ~Andy
Thank you for your prayers and encouragement, Andy.
Wow – What a testimony that you are willing to do what it takes for Christ to be shown in you. Thank you for sharing and encouraging us in your example.
Cheri, It seems that the decision to allow Christ to be formed in us cannot just be made one time-at least not for me. I find myself deciding to allow it again tomorrow, and then again the next time etc. By God’s grace, we will finish the race.
I believe God wants to use you for His glory, maybe just in a different way than you or anyone else was expecting in this life time… I feel I can relate to some of what you are saying ! Would like to visit with your family again soon!
Thanks for the encouragement, Nancy. It means a lot. The visit would be nice.
This is one of the most beautiful things on earth, when we surrender to God in the midst of a trial so that Christ is made perfect in us. As you so beautifully state it, to be molded into the likeness of Christ. Oh how I love this! What a wonderful challenge and inspiration to us all! Thank you!
I pray that God will continue to fill you with His love, His grace and His courage this way. It bubbles out, it spills over, and it gives life to those around you, and those who read this blog! Bless you!
Thank you, Trudy. I’m so glad Jesus never told us that following Him would be easy, but He did tell us that it would be worth it all!
Reblogged this on Trudy Metzger's Blog and commented:
This is a most beautiful testimony to the goodness of God! If ever I should doubt that He is real, which I will not because He has made Himself too personal to me, but if I did doubt, it would be a testimony such as this that would touch my heart and make me tender again.
May God bless you for your encouragement, Trudy.It means so much in the context of our trial.