I have grown up in the Church. I am a Christian. I have questioned God and he has returned faithful, and I will continue to question him when I do not understand. I believe it grows my faith. I have experienced the love, grace, mercy, and healing that comes from God. I love him, and he cherishes me. I have also been confused. A recent example is this is a few days ago. I was confused because in a place I trusted , that had seen me through hard places, that had seen freedom come forth in my life, and fought with me for that freedom, and where I have heard a righteous faith message, I heard, for the first time in a long time, a works, rejection message. I was, to say the least , Confused. There were multiple times where the anxiety and pain from the words being spoken were too much to handle and I wanted to walk out. But, I had a sweet friend reassure me , tell me not to leave, and to be patient and listen. I am so glad I did.
I have said before that I believe you can learn from anyone. I stand by this, and believe that this moment was no different. Let me tell you what I learned, and what the Lord spoke to me in this message.
- Sometimes God uses people’s misguided words to show you how firm your foundation is and how secure you are in him. See, We all have different convictions. and that is okay. But what the Lord spoke to me was, “let people be exactly where they are at , without judgement. Is that not where you are asking them to meet you?” What I learned was that opinions are just that. Opinions. That does not mean they are truth. Furthermore, my truth is not necessarily your truth. What convictions has the Lord placed in your life?
- People’s opinions do not make them any less human. In fact. They make them more so.
- I am no longer a reed that is swayed by the wind or tossed in the sea. I am confident that the Lord speaks clearly to me, and has called me to love people, exactly where they are at. No matter if I agree with them or not. I will love God, and I will love people. For that is the greatest commandment. Thank you for helping me see the growth I am experiencing.
- And Lastly, at the end of the day, you are the one who has to handle the consequences of the choices you make, and I am the one who has to handle the consequences of mine. So, I will love you as you walk your journey. Will you do the same ?
Let me end here by saying. Confusion is just that, a mixup in our brains as we try to process an unfamiliar situation. It does not have to rattle us, or it can. It does not have to shift our beliefs, or faith, or it can. It does not have to break us, or shake our foundation, or it can. It is up to us. Learn what you believe, be confident in that, and surround yourself with people who will see Gold in you , and speak to that. Enjoy life friends. It’s the only one we have. As always, These are just thoughts. You have yours and I have mine. Take what applies and leave what doesn’t.
Also, where in the world have vanilla bean fraps been my whole life????
Be encouraged friends
–Rachael
Accepting The Peace 