Saturday 17 November 2018, 10:10am
From the very beginning of time when God created the earth, God made clear distinctions; between heaven and earth, light and darkness, evening and morning and so it is with Free Will. The first example of “free will” is in the fall of Adam and Eve. God warned them not to eat from the Tree of Life as it would cause death. What followed was a clear choice of free will. Adam and Eve disregarded God’s warning and chose to eat an apple from that very tree.
I too have been given a free will. A choice between living in the Light or living in the dark. I chose the Light; I chose for God. It certainly is not a choice for the light hearted nor easy to have strong faith. Having faith means I trust God and obey His commands, decrees and covenants. It requires me to give up the worldly things and replacing them for a life according to God’s “righteousness” in every aspect of my life.
Regardless of the difficulties and challenges I’ve encountered, the rewards have been indescribable. In following God and His words, I experience calm and peace and times of overwhelming bliss and joy.
“Do good to your servant according to your word, LORD. Teach me knowledge and good judgment, for I trust your commands. Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I obey your word. You are good, and what you do is good; teach me your decrees.” Psalm 119:65-68
“It was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees. The law from your mouth is precious to me than thousands of pieces of silver and gold. Your hands made me and formed me; give me understanding to learn your commands.” Psalm 119:71-73
“May your unfailing love be my comfort, according to your promise to your servant.” Psalm 119:76 “May I wholeheartedly follow your decrees, that I may not be put to shame.” Psalm 119:80
May my faith in YOU triumph over fear and failure. May your words of encouragement be with me and in me; “Be strong and courageous” in walking the narrow path leading to You. I know you will there for me no matter what; “He will never leave you nor forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6
May I always be as when we first met – “First Love” – loving you with all I have in my heart, my soul, my mind and all my strength.” (revelation 2:4)
“I am under vows to you, my God; I will present my thank offerings to you. For you have delivered me from death and my feet from stumbling, that I may walk before God in the Light of Life.” Psalm 56:12-13
“When your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world.” 1 Peter 1:7
In Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, Amen.
