I've been thinking about this Christian life, how so many "go forward to accept Christ" but fall by the wayside. Why is that? They start out all fired up for the Lord. They want to conquer the world for Christ. Something happened somewhere. I have often felt that the "new born babes" were sent into the world without preparation to survive. Like babes in the woods, they have no idea what it takes to live the Christian life. They were promised "a rose garden." "Accept Christ and everything becomes new." Actually, when one accepts Christ he/she becomes a new creature but circumstances remain the same, and may in fact even become worse because now he/she is under New Management! Fro some reason this is not explained in the beginning. Babes are not being told that the world is no longer their friend; that there is a personal devil and he's out to get them now that they have proclaimed Christ as their Master.
The new Christian, and believe me, some who professed Christ years ago are still in the category of "new Christian, or "babes in Christ." The new Christian needs to realize that accepting Christ is accepting an invitation to change, not just the life style, but the whole person. The goal that God has for each of His children is to become Christ-like; to become more like His only begotten Son. It is not to bring us happiness down here. Jesus never promised us happiness in this shadow land. He did, though, promise us joy, and there is a difference.
We are uncut diamonds when we come to Christ. Like potter on the Master Potter's wheel, we're to expect change. And change is often painful. That person or circumstance currently causing us anxiety and sorrow is allowed by our caring Father to "rub out" something within us that is not like His Son. The chisel used on the diamond causes must distress. The fire in the kiln for processing the piece of pottery causes a lot of discomfort. But what if the chisel or the kiln were not used? What value would the diamond or piece of clay have then?
We have to remember that "happily ever" after is not the goal God has in mind for us. That person, that circumstance that is so uncomfortable is God's chisel upon you. Is He punishing you? Not at all! It's an indication of His love for you. He wants so desperately for you to become fashioned into the image of Jesus. You want to be happy? Then think of the joy that awaits you when you come forth as gold! I was reminded of a bumper sticker that said, "Old age is not for wimps!" (Ain't it the truth!) Let me remind you that Christianity is not for wimps either!
Keep in mind that He knows you better than you know yourself. He loves you more than anyone ever did. He knows exactly what you need, and He is faithful. I don't know what's "bugging" you today. It may be your job. He can change it, but you can't just jump off the Potter's wheel. You have to wait for Him to decide when you're ready for the next step. It may be that you think you made a mistake in your marriage. Don't pray for God to change your spouse! Ask Him to change you! Let God know that you are willing to stay on the Potter's wheel, to be changed, to be molded into the image of His dear Son. He knows when the job is done. Once you're willing to allow change in YOU, God will change your spouse.
They say it's not all about you, but I say it is. It's all about the decisions, the choices you make. Is your desire to be changed into the image of Christ, or is happiness your goal? The two pathways are quite different. One brings great joy, the other brings great sadness. One brings the sweetness of His presence as you press on toward the mark of His high calling for you. The other brings disappointment after disappointment as you chase after "pie in the sky" promises. God never disappoints. He may not reveal His plan to you, but He does have one, and it's a good one! Why, it's so good it makes me want to dance in expectation!
Pat
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