Inspired by Laksa!

In Dublin now, at my bro's place. I was inspired this morning after having a bowl of laksa..hehe..

God spoke to me clearly yesterday through a book I was reading - Searching Issues on tackling seven common objections to the Christian faith namely suffering, other religions, sex before marriage, the new age, homosexuality, science and christianity and trinity. I'm only now on my first chapter on suffering and I'm slowly taking it in bit by bit, indulging in it =P

God reminded me to once again put my trust in Him and not to worry during difficult times. Especially times when we know that human understanding and ability is limited and we have only God to turn to and trust faithfully that he has great plans for us. For God often uses suffering to bring about his good purpose. Paul tells us that 'in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose' (Romans 8:28)

I am just going to share a quick extract from the book which hit me personally.

Suffering, we see an example of this in the life of Joseph (Genesis 37-50). He suffered from rejection by his close family, was separated from those he loved and forcibly removed to Egypt, away from his father whom he did not see again for twenty years. In Egypt, he was unjustly imprisoned for a crime that he did not commit. For thriteen years he faced trials, temptations and testing until at the age of thirty he was made ruler over Egypt and was put in a position to save the lives of not only his family, but also of all God's people. Towards the end of his life he was able to speak of his suffering to his brothers, saying, 'You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accompolish what is now being done, the saving of many lives' (Genesis 50:20)

I personally believe that whatever suffering or confusion I have at this time or that I may not always see at this time what God is doing or just like Joseph, who whould not have been able to see it so cearly God's wonderful plan for him, I am convinced God has good plans for me. Often we cannot work out what is going on or why we are suffering in the way we are, but....remember

God says, for I know the plans I have for you", declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Jeremiah 29 :11

Another short testimony fronm a little boy in the book...

Gavin Reid, the Bishop of Maidstone, interviewed a boy who shattered his back falling down the stairs at the age of one and who had consequently been in and out of hospital. When Gavin interviewed him in church the boy remarked that 'GOD IS FAIR.'

Gavin stopped him and asked, ' How old are you?'
The boy replied, 'Seventeen'
'How many years have you spent in hospital?'
The boy answered, 'Thirteen years.'
He was asked,'Do you think this is fair?'
He replied, 'God's got ALL of eternity to make it up to me.'

God has indeed all eternity to make it up to us. Thank you Jesus for pardoning my sins and comforting my heart. Because you first love me and because of you, I'm free. Amen.