There
was once a certain man who walked out into the middle of a field where he would
not be interrupted by anyone. He raised his arms toward heaven, then with tears
streaming down his face, trembling with fear, he began to shout. He, with all
the strength in his being shouted out to God saying "I just can't take it
anymore.
I have been used, abused, beaten, cursed, laughed at, lied to, and
sneered on. I have tried to love exactly how You asked me to. I have turned the
other cheek hundreds, even a thousand times until my cheeks ache. I have given
even when I had to borrow so another might survive. I have prayed and cried for
many who do not know You, God. Oh God...I am tired, worn out, and discouraged
trying to fight the evil that buffets my soul. I feel You have turned from me God, I feel like this is more than I
can do! God, do You really even care!"
Then
he heard a voice speak softly within his troubled heart. The voice said,
"Yes I am here, I have never left. You know nothing of how many souls have
watched you in your struggles, your pain, and your perseverance. You know
nothing of how many souls have turned to Me because you have stood against the
wiles of evil, not breaking, but standing firm. Many have seen your pain because
of your testimony of Me and they will stand without excuse before Me because of
your life before them!"
The
voice continued within this man and said, "If I ask of too much pain from
you for the sake of other souls, then go into your house and do nothing; I will
find another who is willing to give for the sake of lost souls. I will find
another who will walk through the suffering and pain even as I allowed pain and
suffering in Paul, Peter, and all those who went into this world of sickness and
evil so others might know Me!"
The
man fell upon his face ashamed and then the love of God lifted him to his feet.
He looked up to heaven as his entire being began to experience a refreshing and
a new strength. He whispered, "Lord, I am ready to go back and love; even
unto death." And as he walked away, he heard a voice say, "Well
done My faithful friend."
Unknown
Source
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 paths straight. ~Proverbs
3:5 and 6~ Don't
ask God to change your circumstances;
He sent your circumstances to
change you.
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Tim
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