“To learn you must want to be taught. To refuse reproof is stupid” Proverbs 12:1 TLB
Well, reproof is exactly what I got when I got to Proverbs 12:6 “The wicked accuse.. the godly defend.”
As I read that verse, immediately my thoughts flew to my granddaughter Chloe. Even when she was small, if I grumbled at someone’s actions and Chloe was around to hear, she would defend that person. She was and is always quick to focus on the good.
Humbled by a child.
hugs
Sharon
I find that GOD is using the challenges of this time to work in my life by showing me things about myself that I had not recognized. It is all part of HIS marvelous plan and way (Zechariah 13:9) to fulfill HIS decree to change me (as HE does all believers) into the likeness of JESUS CHRIST our LORD (Romans 8:29).
Silver and gold is heated to purify it for as the heat melts the metal, the impurities in it are released and rise to the top so the refiner can easily skim off the scum. Pressures and challenges cause impurities in us to rise up within us as well.
In Ecclesiastics 3:18 we are told the situations we find ourselves in are from GOD to try us and show us the old sin nature within us. The problems are like the fire of the refiner making the scum rise to the top so GOD can help us remove it.
With my life altered during the shut down resulting from Covid-19 and extended family living with us, I do not have the same freedom or space and I have found myself getting irritated and grumbling under my breath just like the Jews did in the wilderness. GOD hates grumbling as we see in HIS dealing with the Jews in the wilderness.
Sometimes there is some friction with a household of 9 in small quarters and 1 bathroom and hearing and feeling that friction I have anger rise up in me. I asked the LORD to help me to put anger aside as HE commands (Psalm 37:8) and HE whispered but what is causing it Sharon?
I knew immediately the answer. It was selfishness. It shocked me yet I saw it clearly and confessed. Then I knew what to do- I was to look to JESUS who gave HIS all for me and follow HIS example with HIS help (Hebrews 12:1-3, 4:14-16).
It sure changes my perspective to know these struggles are intentionally given by GOD to show me things so they may be dealt with. So I can give thanks for these things just as HE tells me to in 1 Thessalonians 5:18.
In times of pressure, do attitudes that surprise you rise up in you?
Hugs
Sharon
wakemyear 