As I have reflected on all of this and considered what the Lord has been speaking to me, He has reminded me of scriptures that have been spoken over me all of my life and bringing new understanding. In this process, He has been forming me in a significant and more refined way that I can tangibly feel–sometimes it is peaceful and loving, and other times it is painful and uncomfortable. This is a time in which I believe the Lord is reminding us all of His promises and revealing more about Himself through what we are enduring than we have previously seen.
Proverbs 3:1-8 says: “My son, do not forget My teaching, but keep My commandments in your heart for they will prolong your life many years and bring you prosperity. Let love and faithfulness never leave you, bind them around your neck and write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor in the sight of God and man. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your path straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes, fear the Lord and shun evil. This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones.”
I have remembered this scripture since I learned it in grade school and usually the part trusting in Him and not leaning on my own understanding in verse 5 is what comes to mind. (I mean, how many of us need regular reminders in the challenges of life to trust in Him?) However, in this case as I read through the whole passage, I see His wisdom and instruction. I see the part about remembering His teaching–clinging to love and faithfulness (mercy and truth in some translations) and the promises of long life, favor with God and men, prosperity and health that He gives us in obedience. The trust piece and letting go of my understanding is still particularly relevant, but I am refreshed in looking deeper into His word and knowing His trustworthy nature and the promise He provides in our lives as we choose daily to walk with Him in the midst of whatever it is that we are experiencing.
This is a season of milestones. A season of hopeful, truth spoken over us by our amazing Father that we will surely not forget. God is working amazing things together for our good and through the example of our lives, He is creating an invitation for others to step into a relationship with Him filled with promise and destiny. Let this season be marked by the milestone of victory that God has for YOU, for your family, and in your circumstances. We are praying for you all and we greatly miss seeing your bright, shining faces and giving you all hugs. We are looking forward to what God produces in us through this time!
Now, may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13
Brittany has been the Youth Pastor intern since October, 2018. Did you know…Brittany changes her own oil in her car.
Brittany, Thank you for your ‘proclamation of hope’!
Really good perspective, that reaffirmed what I have been feeling, too. Thanks!
Thank-you for your encouraging words. What has come to mind is the importance of our learning contentment in all circumstances because ’round about us will be ever changing. Christ within, our hope, our Glory and the lifter of our heads.