Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,
Recent days have brought some struggles that I never expected in life. It seems that when I think I have things figured out then something comes up and messes with me. I don’t think that I am the only one that has ever gone through times such as this.
At this time my life is moving in a direction that is causing me some confusion. I am just struggling with what is going to be my next step and where that will take me. I know God has got things taken care of, but it still brings the question to my mind – “What am I going to do next?’
I know that by now many already know that I have retired from pastoring at Highland. Although it was never something that I intended to do, Vicki and I felt that this was the right time. I really thought that I would be preaching and the Lord would just say, “It’s time for you to come home.” Then it would be done.
Because of some of the health issues that I have been dealing with, I felt that I was holding the church back from moving forward. So, we decided now was the time. As soon as I can get back on my feet, I will once again minister wherever and however the Lord leads.
Okay, so now you know what has been going on. But that’s not the whole story. Retiring has brought some struggles that I never even considered. There are times I feel that my emotions are overwhelming and I find it difficult to move forward. My daily routine for 40 years has been disrupted and brought about a change that has caused me to not be at peace.
As I considered all that has been going on and even more decisions that I will have to make, it caused me to not be at peace in my heart. Of course, that made things even tougher. Then in the midst of a prayer time God spoke to me. He simply said – “I’ve got this, trust Me!”
Then my heart was turned to a familiar scripture. Paul wrote in Philippians 4:6-7 --- 6 “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
I still don’t know what tomorrow holds for me. Yet I do know Who holds my tomorrow! I still have issues with my back and feet that will have to be looked at by a surgeon but I know that God has got this and I can trust Him every step of the way.
I also recognize that I am not the only one facing issues that are not fully revealed at this time. Some are going through testing, treatments, other medical issues, as well as issues of life that are causing tough times in their lives. It seems that every day there is something that confronts us with a new challenge.
I can’t bring about a change in any person’s life, but I know the One who can. I know things can be tough, but I believe that God is greater than anything the devil brings into our lives. No matter how tough things may seem just know that God is there for you.
Pray about what is going on and trust God to work in you or the life of a loved one and I promise you, “God’s got this.” As you face the struggles and trials of life, just remember --- JESUS, JESUS, JESUS, there IS something about that name!!
Christ only, always,
Bro. Paul
