Saturday, January 26, 2013

The Joy of the Lord is my Strength

"In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ," (1 Peter 1:6-7).

Though I cannot share with all of you the struggles that have faced me in these last few weeks, I do want to share with you the joy that our Lord has given me through them. 

Praise the Lord for His work of transformation. At vespers/prayer meeting on Friday night, I started to cry when the pastor asked me how my week went, but by vespers on Sabbath evening I was singing and full of joy. Jesus truly poured out His Sabbath blessing on me. Through church service, Sabbath school, united prayer, and nature He gave rest to my soul. He took my sorrow and traded it for joy. Psalm 126:5 says, "Those who sow in tears shall reap in joy," and it has been proven true in my life. 

As I watched the sun set and the full moon rise, as I felt the strength of the wind and and the power of the sea, as I sang with God's people to end God's day, He created a new heart in me, and wiped my tears away. Worshiping in the wonders of creation filled me with love for my Creator, Who not only made me, but also sustains me. 

"For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting, and His truth endures to all generations," (Psalm 100:5)

3 comments:

  1. Katie dear, praise God He's sustaining you! It really is in times like these that you can clearly see God's strength being let down to you. I'm so proud of you girl and I'm praying for you! I love you SO MUCH!!!

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    1. Never disregard the wonder of your tears (a mechanism amazingly designed by God). They can be healing waters and a source of joy. Sometimes they are the best words the heart can speak.
      "Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love Him." (James 1:12)
      We are praying for you! :)

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