Walking in the dark

More inspiration from Linda Dillow, author of Calm My Anxious Heart. Linda likes visualization and it brings concepts and ideas to life in a new way. I like what she talks about with faith. "There are no accidents, no mistakes, no miscalculations." But sometimes what we can't see becomes a road block to us walking by faith. She describes Noah and how his faith was so steadfast, even under the hard work, ridicule and suffering - he remained faithful, even when he didn't know the outcome. "Walking by faith is difficult because we're asked to believe what we can't see. This means we often have to walk on a dark path."

Linda states that when we live by feelings and by what we can see, we will be anxious. I see that. But if we live by faith and trust in God for what we can't see, the end outcome, the overall picture, we will be content and have a peaceful, calm heart. I understand, but doing it is the trick! "Faith is walking in the dark with God, holding His hand." So Dillow tells us to ask the question, are my eyes on God's Word or on my circumstances?

And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28 NAS

We are assured and know that [God being a partner in their labor] all things work together and are [fitting into a plan] for good to and for those who love God and are called according to [His] design and purpose. Romans 8:28 Amplified

I was listening to a SM Davis CD the other day and he was talking about how we should view trials, frustrations, or little hiccups in life. Christians should consider all trials a JOY! Actually be happy, even ecstatic that we are going through a situation that is tough because we are growing and learning. I am always motivated by James 1:2-4:

Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing. James 1:2-4 NLT

My prayer for today: Know my heart God. Teach me to not live by feelings, but by faith. Give me the wisdom to know that each circumstance, every moment is permitted by You - all for good, especially when I am in the midst of that circumstance. Help me keep my eye on You and Your Word, not my feelings. I can't see the purpose of many circumstances, but I know they are all for Your glory. Amen.