Ephesians 4: 31-32 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

Today when I opened by bible the above verses were staring me in the face. The significance of this was uncanny and it was not lost on me. Just this morning I had entered a post in my notebook concerning the truths in this scripture. Thinking that if I had just not been so prideful and opinionated the events that were turning over and over in my mind may have had a much different outcome.

For the last few years, I have spent the majority of my time in the bible, reading biblical commentary, listening to Christian sermons, and fellowshipping with other Christians through church and bible studies. You would think I would behave myself. I know what I should be doing before I act or speak. In times of confusion or troubles I should turn to God for guidance and answers. I have learned the hard way that everything does not need a response, and my desired outcome will not always be Gods will. In all circumstances I need to be still and know that God is God. But as much as I hate to admit it this is not always as easy as it seems. The human in me allows emotions to get in the way and that is where the trouble starts.

I taught children’s bible study for years, so I know very well that the purpose of my life is to know God, love Him, enjoy Him, and glorify Him (I have had that song in my head all day). To love Him is to love others and this is where I feel I have failed Him. Sometimes it is hard to love others, especially when you feel they have failed you, betrayed you, or just let you down. Hurt is hard to let go of and recently it has caused me to react to a couple of situations in a way that I will be remind of for the rest of my life. I just could not let go and love the way God wanted me to love.

God allows crushing circumstances to come into our lives to grow us. Comfort in God does not represent being safe from sorrow, safe from hardship, or safe from sin. I was reminded of Romans 3:23 “For all have sinned and fall short of the Glory of God.” I pray that God will shine His light and guide me into clarity and confidence. I ask that he leads me with His wisdom and counsel and helps me to trust in His perfect timing and direction. That He calms any fears, removes any confusion, and give me peace as I seek His will. I cannot change my past, but I can change my future. Have a blessed Sunday my friends.