No distrust made him waver concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God, fully convinced that God was able to do what he had promised. Romans 4:20-21
The “he” Paul refers to is Abraham. Yes, Abraham’s faith grew as he gave glory to God. After all, he headed out on a journey into the unknown on God’s command. He trusted God was leading him and his household to a new land full of promise. When God told him he’d be a father of many nations, even at his age, Abraham believed. Unfortunately, he believed it so well, he took matter into his own hands and impregnated a servant since he and Sarah were convinced that Sarah was barren. Thus began trouble in paradise.
Are we so different? When we become Christians, we embark on a journey into a new world- the world of holy love, grace and mercy. We become strangers to the world and it’s views. God says to follow Him and we do. We believe His promises, but like Abraham, we do not always trust in God’s timing. Or, like Abraham, we take matters into our own hands and mess it up.
As a writer, naturally I want success, for God’s glory and for me as well. I desire my books to sell, and my words to touch hearts. But I must remember for whom I write. I must keep in mind who my boss is. His timing is perfect, he is in control of this talent. As I grow more in my faith that He is blessing my writings, I become more and more fully convinced He is at work in me. If I give Him the glory, I submit to His time table, His schedule, His perfect plan. It’s hard, since this is also my income, not to become anxious. It is hard for churches and missionaries to not worry about the money issues, too. It’s hard for all of us, no matter what our gifts or ministries, to let God by in control of how they are used.
God never said this journey He has placed me on would be easy. Most likely, yours isn’t either. Whether you are a wife, a mother, a sister or a grandmother, as women we all have many jobs and many demands. Yet deep in my heart, I am fully convinced God has it all mapped out and will give us the strength to follow Him. He did for Abraham, for Joseph and for Moses. Through His Holy Spirit’s guidance and Jesus’ intercession, we have a light to lead us down the path. In God’s wisdom, the beam is short, so we can only see today. That’s a good and purposeful thing. May He fully convince you of that as well. To God be the glory, great things He has done (and will do, too).
