Lord, I want to be kind.. but I feel like slapping her...
In my first post ever written I promised to be authentic before you as I wrote. As I set out on this journey I wasn't sure what to expect, but I was smart enough to know at some point I would have to deal with opposition from those that did not approve of my authenticity.
This is what I was met with earlier this week. Lies from the enemy, harsh accusations and condemnation all wrapped neatly in a blanket of "love", "concern" and "humility". Did their remarks hurt? Momentarily. But more than anything it was an opportunity for me to learn. I was reminded of how we can misuse the gifts God had given us. If we allow envy, pride, bitterness or any other sin to pop a toe into the door of our heart and fester we have just given the enemy a foothold. The very gifts God has given to bring glory to His name are now used for destruction instead of life.
I was also reminded of God's love for me. There is freedom in Christ and I am loved... you are loved beyond what any of us can comprehend. Because of His grace and gift of the cross I can refuse to believe lies and accept words of hate. I can refuse to be discouraged. I can refuse to allow my heart to become bitter and angry. I can refuse to loose my peace and joy. And I can love... despite the actions of others. Satan has no authority over me...for I am a daughter of the King. That is true freedom! And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28
My heart has been encouraged and blessed by many of you through your love and kindness. Many of you have willingly shared your own struggles and my heart aches for all of you. I hope you know that you are in my prayers. God is working in so many of your lives as well as mine. And it is indescribable how grateful I am to be part of His plan. Thank you all for your graciousness, love and prayers. Don't ever give up! Always remember that even though opposition will come, when you do what is right, God is right by your side. If He is for us then who can be against us?
But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil. II Thess. 3:3
Trials are not enemies of faith but are opportunities to prove God's faithfulness.
Until then...
Jessie
In my first post ever written I promised to be authentic before you as I wrote. As I set out on this journey I wasn't sure what to expect, but I was smart enough to know at some point I would have to deal with opposition from those that did not approve of my authenticity.
This is what I was met with earlier this week. Lies from the enemy, harsh accusations and condemnation all wrapped neatly in a blanket of "love", "concern" and "humility". Did their remarks hurt? Momentarily. But more than anything it was an opportunity for me to learn. I was reminded of how we can misuse the gifts God had given us. If we allow envy, pride, bitterness or any other sin to pop a toe into the door of our heart and fester we have just given the enemy a foothold. The very gifts God has given to bring glory to His name are now used for destruction instead of life.
I was also reminded of God's love for me. There is freedom in Christ and I am loved... you are loved beyond what any of us can comprehend. Because of His grace and gift of the cross I can refuse to believe lies and accept words of hate. I can refuse to be discouraged. I can refuse to allow my heart to become bitter and angry. I can refuse to loose my peace and joy. And I can love... despite the actions of others. Satan has no authority over me...for I am a daughter of the King. That is true freedom! And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28
My heart has been encouraged and blessed by many of you through your love and kindness. Many of you have willingly shared your own struggles and my heart aches for all of you. I hope you know that you are in my prayers. God is working in so many of your lives as well as mine. And it is indescribable how grateful I am to be part of His plan. Thank you all for your graciousness, love and prayers. Don't ever give up! Always remember that even though opposition will come, when you do what is right, God is right by your side. If He is for us then who can be against us?
But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil. II Thess. 3:3
Trials are not enemies of faith but are opportunities to prove God's faithfulness.
Until then...
Jessie
After much thought, I have decided to not publish any comments I received concerning this post. I hope you all understand. Thank you sooo much for your encouragement and kindness.
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