Pushing forward:)

Life can be filled with such pain and misery it is hard to look around to see the daily blessings which God gives to us.  Through my devotional today (Dr. Charles Stanley, Intouch Ministries) I want to share with you four blessings that we can enjoy in the midst of our painful situation:

• We are assured that our almighty God chose us before the foundation of the world.  He predestined us to be adopted as His children.  We can feel special and wanted because the Sovereign of the universe selected us. 
• Jesus provided our salvation through his death and resurrection.  he redeemed us from sin that causes separation form God and ultimately leas to death.   As a result, we receive a brand-new nature and daily forgiveness of iniquities. (2Cor. 5:17; 1John 1:9)
• The Holy Spirit resides within us. He guides, warns, and fills us so we are never without counsel or comfort.  He also seals us so that our eternity is secure. (Ephesians 1:13)
• Our Father prepares an inheritance for us that is imperishable. (1Peter 1:4).  We may experience momentary troubles, but we can look forward to living eternally in God's presence, where there is joy and no suffering.

That is what I long for.  Living with my almighty God in happiness and joy.

It is so hard to keep a smile on our faces and joy in our heart in a fleshy world so filled with self-centeredness and self-righteousness.

The worst thing is that selfness clings to us and if we are not careful we become the self-righteous.

Remember, we accept God into our lives for a purpose.  To live with Him forever. To become one of His children.  To sacrifice of ourselves each day.  It is not a promise of no more tears or hardships while we live here on earth.  As a matter of fact we probably notice or feel as Christians that we have to endure more, its all good.  It is all for our benefit to build us up in character.

I am still going through a trying period right now and will continue to until God has me where He needs me.  Or has stripped me of what needs to be rid of in my life.  It seems unfair as I look around at others who profess to love me and seem so distant from the truth, but I need to remember that I live this life, the life given to me by God, for Him not for them.

I write these words for myself as much for anyone else.  We all need to be reminded of His crowning glory and that special day yet to comes so we can push forward.

Praise God!

Many blessings to you!

Mary

How awesome He is! All glory and honor be yours Almighty Father! Have a great and blessed day my brothers and sisters! Love, Mary Don't forget to post testimonies, encouragement stories, prayer request.......we are all family. Not a believer or follower. Read more about Jesus. Allow His amazing gift to free you in your life today! Not a believer or follower.  Read more about Jesus.  Allow His amazing gift to free you in your life today!