When I retired I thought it would be a great time for me to read some of the books that I have collected. Some I have read, some partially read some not at all. It appears that it is God's time,.4 1/2 years later. As I browsed through the shelf, there was one that I had started but I won't mention the date It is the Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren, I am sure many of you have heard of it or read this 40-day spiritual journey. You know how old that one is. I have several other books by him. I have been on day two for four days and that is okay. I have been wanting to share with you, however, I have been lead in other directions but today is the day.
First, this morning while preparing my breakfast as I reached for the cinnamon for my french toast, the most profound thought came "God is Love".. After re-reading chapter 2, "You Are No Accident" one of the verses to study is none other than, John 1::8 Whoever does not love, does not know God because God is love. This was confirmation that we are on the right track.
Here are a few passages of study from the chapter. New International Version (NIV)
Isaiah 44:2
This is what the Lord says— he who made you, who formed you in the womb, and who will help you:
Ephesians 1:4
For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love
James 1:18
He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created.
You are who you are for a reason.
You're part of an intricate plan.
You're a precious and perfect unique design,
Called God's special woman or man.
You look like you look for a reason.
He knit you together within the womb,
You're just what he wanted to make.
The parents you had were the ones he chose,
And no matter how you may feel,
They were custom-designed with God's plan in mind,
And they bear the Master's seal.
No, that trauma you faced was not easy.
And God wept that it hurt you so;
But it was allowed to shape your heart.
So that into his likeness you'd grow.
You are who you are for a reason,
You've been formed by the Master's rod.
You are who you are, beloved,
(By Russell Kelfer, Adapted from The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren)
Today God is creating something new in me. It is a Joy that will extend to others. I am not to mistake it for something that I am doing but what the Holy Spirit wills. Thank you God for your Holy Spirit that dwells in me. I am not to take credit but to watch in delight as the Spirit flows from me to others. I am not to try and control it. I pray,
Amen.
Have a blessed day in Christ
Love,
Jackie
