I’ve posted this picture before, and I’m sure I’ll post it again someday. It’s an excerpt from an email sent to me by my chaplain back in 2005/2006. It’s currently my desktop background. (I think this post is mostly for my sake, to remember, to use as evidence when the unbelievable happens.)
I’m optimistic, not absent-minded.
I know what could happen. I’m choosing to BELIEVE that it won’t.
And if it does, I’ll choose to BELIEVE that God will get me through it.
Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to the king, "O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up." (Daniel 3:16-18, italics mine)
I’m not fighting against an earthly king, but a worldly mindset.
Scenario #1:
It’s April 23rd.
My work visa expires on June 2nd.
The church school is not currently able to give me a visa at this moment. Which means no Civil ID.
Without a Civil ID, I cannot (legally) rent/own a car, hold a bank account, use their health care or legally work, among other things.
But it’s only April 23rd, it’s only been a week. I have time. God created time. We’re working on it, and more importantly, God is working on it.
Wait for the Lord. Be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord. (Psalm 27:14)
Whatever happens, good will come of it. If everything else is delayed, at least it will build character! ;)
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28)
Scenario #2:
I have to move out of my apartment before June 18.
The church also doesn’t have a place for me to live at the moment, and they can’t see a practical place on the horizon.
They’ll find a place. It’s okay.
If I have to share, that is okay.
If it’s small, that is okay.
If it’s dark, that is okay.
If I have to move again in October, it’s okay.
It’s okay.
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Yesterday while we were talking, Mr. Rob and I decided that obviously my faith needed a little stretching! I think that’s true.
Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see…And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. (Hebrews 11:1, 6)
Just you wait. His name IS Jehovah Jireh, after all.
And I’m learning to trust Him.
