Affected, But Not Destroyed

An interesting thought came to mind yesterday, just moments after praying that God would reveal what He might have for this prayer post. The thought was thus.

There are only two things to do when down (from having either laid or fallen to that position). You can remain there or you can rise up. I chose the word "rise", because, that is what Jesus modeled for us after the resurrection. Granted, he was dead, but when that angel rolled the stone away, Jesus had a choice to make. Remain where he was or choose what was better.

When given the choice, after having completed His purpose on earth, He chose to rise up and move on to what was next... returning to heaven to prepare a place for us,

Likewise, we too, have the choice... remain down or rise again.

What was an interesting follow-up to this, was during last nights devotional during the Wednesday Night Prayer. Joshua and Caleb outvoted on what to do about Canaan. 40 years, he had to wait patiently, enduring the down-right stupid decisions. Yet it doesn't throw him off. He doesn't get bitter, it doesn't take over and consume him. He waits...for the promise. For the leadership change, for the generation change... essentially, for the nation and the culture to change. Decisions that were made that negatively impacted his life for an extended period of time and he simply stayed close to God and what he know was coming from the Lord. Incredible.

On this #deaconThursday, for those in church operations, admins and deacons, affected by decisions and circumstances that they disagree with or perhaps, are out of what they know to be God's will, plan or direction. Pray they will stay close to God and hang on to His promises. May they not allow in bitterness and frustration to overtake and consume them. May they not remain in a down and defeated position and mentality, but with strength and courage, by the power of the Holy Spirit, rise again with the help and grace of Almighty God.

May there not be a found, an attitude of grumbling and complaining, for which a promise is withheld until that generation and their attitude passes. God help us, today. By your grace. For your glory.

- PNC

---