I don't think I ever understood just how different God's ways were than mine, until my son Nick had his reversion. During that time, Nick's faith was challenged in ways I would have never thought would bring him closer to God, in fact, I would have probably begged that they didn't happen, mistakenly thinking they would shake his faith.

As my son was just starting to renew his relationship with Jesus, his truck was broken into. About $800.00 worth of things were stolen and Nick was initially angry and upset. A few days after the break-in, he appeared happy, joyful even. I questioned his mood and he informed me that he had come to an incredible conclusion. He recognized that all he had lost was 'stuff.' He acknowledged that his family was ok, his friends were good and that God had protected what mattered. He credited the Lord with giving him this insight on what was truly important.

God does indeed, work in mysterious ways.

Today's Challenge:

When faced with a situation in which you cannot understand God's plan, just offer the prayer, "Jesus, I trust in you," and do, actually trust that God has a better plan than you can know.

""For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways," declares the LORD."" Isaiah 55:8

Season of Suffering

For many people this Advent season is not filled with joy and anticipation, but with sorrow and loss. We have a friend who tragically lost his twenty year-old son this year. I'm sure that many Christmas traditions will be a painful reminder, especially the lighting of our town's Christmas tree. The family is synonymous with our little town; the dad a former fire chief and the son a town worker. The wound of grief will open again. Let us be aware that while we are making merry others may be hurting.

Challenge:

Make a special act of kindness to someone who is grieving this season.

"I will turn their mourning into gladness. I will give them comfort and joy instead of sorrow." Jeremiah 31:13