I still remember the day. I had told my pastor, my family, and a few friends that I felt called and was going to follow it. But now I had to go talk to my DS for the first time. I had to tell someone I didn't know I was called. He could tell me yes or no. He could start me in the process or stall me. I had heard things about this man. He was a force to be reckoned with. A large man with a large voice who God had used for a large ministry. I was young and nervous.
I drove to Canton UMC and was about 30 minutes early. He had other appointments, and I walked around the church. We had just started a youth group, so I went and looked at the youth area. They at some point had taken the ceiling tiles and had the students decorate them. I looked up and there it was:
"Lord, send me your truth and your light and they shall guide my paths" (Psalm 43:3--Emily Case translation).
Suddenly I was calm. Those words have been my prayer through the whole process. I can remember days in seminary when I was ready to quit. And those words got me through. What will they get you through? Where can God's truth and light guide you? What can you do because God is guiding you?
Blessings Pastor Emily
(PS does 44:6 talk about gun control--or at least sword control? Ha!)
1 comment:
I think that the timeliness of these Psalms and our message on Waiting at Revive Saturday night is pretty incredible. In both Psalms 42:11 and 43:5 my Bible app translation says "Why are you depressed, O my soul? Why are you upset? Wait for God! For I will again give thanks to my God for his saving intervention." WAIT for God... we seem to always be so busy waiting for earthly things we often forget to wait and see what God has in store for us.
I also thought while reading the Psalms how powerful they could be working with the youth that are dealing with bullies in school... ""For you are the God who shelters me. Why do you reject me? Why must I walk around mourning because my enemies oppress me? Reveal your light and your faithfulness! They will lead me, they will escort me back to your holy hill, and to the place where you live." (Psalm 43:2-3) How powerful for kids that go in to school every day and walk the hallways being ridiculed!
And one more thought to answer your question... I don't see gun/sword control in Psalm 44:6... I see it as the Psalmist saying he does not have faith in his own ability or strength, but his faith is in God and God's ability to help him defeat his enemies. He knows he can't do anything with his sword or bow without God on his side.
Blessings and prayers this week for all those on mission trips! =)
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