Some Things that have Challenged me Lately

I just finished reading two different books that have made a real impression on me. Both inspired me for different reasons, although the stories have similar messages of God's great provision in the midst of extreme hardship. I just wanted to mention a couple of things that really challenged me...in hopes that I can etch these lessons on my heart.

"A Chance To Die" by Elisabeth Elliot is an account of Amy Charmichael's life as she went overseas on missions. She spent years holding conferences and starting up Bible studies in areas where Christianity was despised, but God gave her a gift and He greatly rewarded her labor. She ended up settling down in India where she started an orphanage/rescue home for children who would be otherwise sold into prostitution. When she stumbled across the role of motherhood, in this orphanage community, she had some sweet thoughts that have been a real encouragement to me. I can't tell you how many mothers I have talked to who have wrestled with the feeling of being insignificant for the Kingdom. Satan would love for us to feel that our work at home is not enough to win God's favor, but that couldn't be more wrong.

"The women of [the orphanage] were learning that if the Lord of Glory took a towel and knelt on the floor to wash the dusty feet of His disciples (the job of the lowest slave in an Eastern household), then no work, even the relentless and often messy routine of caring for squalling babies, is demeaning. To offer it up to the Lord of Glory transforms in into a holy task."

She goes on to say that if we are constantly running to what we feel is 'spiritual', because (in truth) our hearts crave the interesting and exciting things over the mundane acts of service, then we really know nothing of Calvary love. Wow...I can't deny that Christ is a perfect role model for women who feel burdened by the daily demands of love.

The other book "My Stronghold" was given to me by my neighbor. He pastored The Fellowship Bible Church nearby until he contracted a serious case of metastatic melanoma. After almost losing his life to the disease, but receiving an undeniable miracle, he wrote this book to capture his journey. I was so curious to read about his story, since I knew so little about him. And, to be honest, I have a deep curiosity for people who endure a cancer battle, because the disease is so reckless and life altering. As Joe writes, "It's ability to fool the immune system, fly under the radar, and spread rapidly is nothing but diabolical genius." I like how he uses his story of pain and perseverance to challenge all Christians to step up in life.

"It is easy to kick against the goads. Maybe your marriage is not what you want it to be. The boss undervalues and underpays you. You see character flaws in your children that deeply concern you. You feel your life is slipping by and you haven't even come close to meeting your potential. So we choose depression, frustration, fussing and complaining. We fight and quarrel and manipulate to try to smooth our path. Or we may just kind of check out and go through the motions. That is no way for God's children to live. We are more than conquerors. We are His pride and joy and He gives everything we need to not only survive, but to thrive in any situation. The center of God's will is crowded with troubles. Don't deny them or ignore them, but don't focus on them either. Turn your eyes to the One who overcomes trouble and let Him lift your spirits and give you joy in the storms and wisdom to handle the struggles."

Well said Joe!