Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? 8 If you are not disciplined—and everyone undergoes discipline—then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all. 9
Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we
respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of
spirits and live! 10 They
disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God
disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness.
11 No discipline seems
pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a
harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by
it.
12 Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees. 13 “Make level paths for your feet,”[b] so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed.
Again my focus of reflection is a new job and whether it is God's plan for me to have a new job for a new company at this time - a significant life change. Much scripture has spoken to me on this topic:
18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
> I should not put any contentment in any earthly circumstances but to gain contentment in all earthly circumstances. In this regard, while I may view my current company in an unfavorable light, I should not expect that any new company will fill a hole that only God can fill. I need to be aware of how I work for Jesus and not any company in particular.
12 For the word of God is
alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates
even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the
thoughts and attitudes of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12)
> Two key points. Scripture should be the reference point for our entire life and all decisions to be made as it will reveal our heart vs the Will of God. Secondly, God is actively working in our life and always up to something new. This is consistent with the message yesterday (18-DEC) from Pastor Scott where Scott asks us to seek God's will for a new beginning as God creates a new beginning (or new normal) for Mary in Luke 1:26-38).
Today the question is about hardship and whether the hardships I have endured at my current company should be viewed as "over" and has God prepared this new opportunity at the new company as my new beginning?
My Prayer: As always God, You are the beginning and the end, You are everything - without You there would be nothing. Your creation is great and of course Your love and grace is great, particularly Your love and grace for me. I am not worthy yet You shower me with love and grace anyway. How incredible is that...I fall to my knees ready to serve you Lord. Forgive me of my anger and sin and help me shed this sin so that I can fully love and serve You. Reveal to me Your plan for me in a new job and help me submit to You fully.
