28

Today I turn 28.

I wrote this a while back, in darker times, in a valley...

"Storms may come, and what the Enemy of our soul means to destroy us, God means to make us greater. Even the best fall down sometimes, but it’s the righteous man who gets back up, again and again. Warfare comes in seasons. In the heat of the battle, we hear the wisdom of the seasoned and successful warrior reassure us, “This too shall pass.” As we pursue the fullness of our inheritance, claiming the territory that rightfully belongs to the children of light, the forces of darkness may feel threatened and lash out. Fear and lies pressing in for our minds bear the fruit of weariness and hopelessness, but with God there is always hope. At times, it may be the best we can do to simply stay standing. But strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord. The storm will pass, a new day will dawn, and with a sigh of relief we’ll move on into greater glory."

As I look back, I can see God's faithfulness in a clearer way.

Even in the hard times, He's making us great, able to carry His glory, which we fell short of early on. I believe that the more we have eyes to see this, and believe it, the better equipped we are to persevere in the midst of the storms and the valleys.

But I don't focus on the darkness, the Cross, the minor theme of life. I lift my eyes to the light, the Resurrection, the major theme. The future is full of light and goodness, breakthrough and abundance, because of what He did for us.

There's always cause to celebrate. That's easier to say in a green pastures, quiet waters season, but its true in the valley as well. He prepares a table before us even in the presence of our enemies. They can't steal our joy.

A few verses come to mind...

"The Thief comes only to steal, kill, and destroy; I came that they may have Life, and have it abundantly." (John 10:10)

"O taste and see that the LORD is good." (Psalms 34:8)

"A glad heart has a continual feast." (Prov. 15:15)

28...
Huh...
Seems like I've been living for quite a while already, but its only the beginning of the beginning.


Quote(s) of the day:

"Truth goes from your head to your heart through trials." (Kris Vallotton)

"We can't always help what happens to us, but we can always help what happens in us." (Kris Vallotton)