Look at Me
Do Not Fool Around with God
Post Easter, 'Rejoice for Christ is Risen' is theme of most sermons and writings. But what about rejoicing in all trials and problems that come our way every day?
In Scripture, James tells us, "Consider it all joy, my brothers, when you encounter various trials, for you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. And let perseverance be perfect, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."
Trust me on this, dear children of God, God means it when we are told to rejoice always: In all things give thanks, and pray without ceasing. Nor was he fooling us when He said "take up your cross if you want to follow Me."
On April first this year, (and even the week before) He allowed big trials to come into my life; trials that made me say: Really God? A broken toe? I have to wear a medical boot for two weeks? Really?!
I almost heard God say, "I told you to slow down, didn't I? I was not fooling you, and neither should you 'fool' around in choosing how to obey what I say."
It was on the morning of April 7th that a big 'fire' forced me to explode into tears, anger, and frustration that had been building up to Holy Week.
I care for animals, which was once no problem, and there was an incident when another family brought their pets into our home. Due to my 'boot' and consequently slower pace, the screen door shut on a cat's tail when I was bringing him inside to feed him. The cat latched onto my right hand, all the while screaming his pain. After getting the problem solved and treating my hand, I cried to the Lord, venting all the emotions that had been building up.
Really God? I know this was a necessary but painful event. But sometimes folks, a God's gotta due what a God's gotta do. He allows consequences from our actions or failure to do what we gotta do.
What we have to do in all trials, in all of the bad events, that come into our lives, no matter how small the pain or the stumble, we must remember always 3 things:
From 1 Thessalonians Chapter 5 v. 16-18:
"Rejoice always, Pray without ceasing!
In all circumstances give thanks,
for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus."
The fires in our world and in our own personal lives will grow hotter; but remember the fourth man is always with us. Learn from the example of these men.
Daniel 4 verse 14:
"They walked about in the flames, singing to God and blessing the Lord."
They also admitted their part they caused in the fire. Verse 29 says, "For we have sinned and transgressed by departing from you."
So, don't fool around with God. He will allow fires, trials and tribulations. It's up to us how we handle them when they come.
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About the Author
Born the youngest of nine children, raised VERY Catholic across the street from Immaculate Heart of Mary church and school—Mom and Dad led by example and word their FAITH in God and saw to it that I was given 12 years of Catholic Education. (Mount St. Mary’s Academy/1965)
But, most importantly, because of my parents’ spiritual renewal after attending Cursillo Weekends, I too went on a retreat at our beloved Subiaco Abbey in Arkansas and there, at age 20, gave my life totally, surrendering all to my Lord and best Friend. This was my “Pentecostal” event that left me, like all the early Christians, on fire with God’s love and forever changed.
My husband Robert and I have been married for 52 this year in a marriage arranged by God. We have 8 children, two in heaven, 24 grandchildren, and 15 great-grandchildren. The story of our life together can be found in a book titled “My Journey, My Cross-As the Journals End,” published by Westbow Press . Our life together has been one awesome up and down roller coaster ride which enriched my heart with so many of the gifts of the Holy Spirit. I have found that the only way, Wisdom, Understanding, Words of Knowledge, Discernment, and Healing can be received is first by experiencing in your life the hurts of others. (and you yourself a sword will pierce)* so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” Luke 2 v 35.
God has blessed me also many other talents and skills--but sometimes, blessings/gifts can and have caused problems or conflict in my life, as I am human and all too quickly that part of me shows up. Thank You God that You also show up!
Because of the many ways that He has rescued me, and taught me through my trials and tribulations and continuous cries for “Help”--- a weekly podcast radio show called “It’s Me, God” can still be found on www.radiotitans.com
