My husband and I were reminded last night of the beauty that overflows when a life given to follow God is based on his word, the Bible.
We heard the story of identical twin boys, now young men who have chosen to follow hard after God. They were not ashamed to say, “how could we not know there is a God? We have been given so much NOT through coincidence but through the Holy Spirit provision.”
How long has it been since a young person’s wisdom literally blew me away. It was because they not only talked it, but were walking it!!
Their respect for “older people” was matched with their enthusiasm to share themselves, unashamedly. They ministered to my husband and me. I alluded to it being like we were clothed with the sword of the Spirit: by locking shields together (the faith of fellow believers) we were able to cut through enemy ground with the sword of the Spirit (the word of God) and advance for the kingdom of God.
They ended our time together with expressing their love for God not only because he had provided for them physically (raised by a single mom), but he had brought emotional healing by helping them forgive their father (who has chosen to remain out of their lives).
They were a picture of the Psalm below. Overflowing with joy to speak of their trust in God, genuinely interested in those they spoke with, they gave out of the abundance of the wisdom in their souls. #GodasFather
What is it that causes dread vs. anticipation and how can we turn it around?. Am I seeing it as a way to grow in my understanding of God’s provision for me, am I approaching it as a question of what does God need to change in me or am I just determined to be a positive influence around others? (all wonderful answers given by others).
For me, I am sure that God wants to help me change certain things in the way I think. Instead of being concerned about “others opinions of me”, to be focused on Him. Studying and delighting in God’s work in others brings wisdom.
My grief (or my dread) makes me realize that I’ve had loss but it also helps me anticipate the comfort I can share with others. My daughter sent a picture of these teardrops- such a wonderful visual of God’s love for us. (Remember the Father’s teardrop at the conclusion of the Passion*)? Be moved and blessed by God- Teresa #wisdomoftheyouth
*the Passion of the Christ, 2004 film written by Mel Gibson
Psalm 111:1-10 (ESV)
111 [a] Praise the Lord!
I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart,
in the company of the upright, in the congregation.
2 Great are the works of the Lord,
studied by all who delight in them.
3 Full of splendor and majesty is his work,
and his righteousness endures forever.
4 He has caused his wondrous works to be remembered;
the Lord is gracious and merciful.
5 He provides food for those who fear him;
he remembers his covenant forever.
6 He has shown his people the power of his works,
in giving them the inheritance of the nations.
7 The works of his hands are faithful and just;
all his precepts are trustworthy;
8 they are established forever and ever,
to be performed with faithfulness and uprightness.
9 He sent redemption to his people;
he has commanded his covenant forever.
Holy and awesome is his name!
10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom;
all those who practice it have a good understanding.
His praise endures forever!
Reconnection 