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God Interrupts

This summer I had the opportunity to listen to Tim Keller’s sermon series on the fruit of the Spirit. When he taught on love he said that so often our motivation isn’t because we love but because we want to look good to others. If I take a casserole to my neighbor, is it out of love for her or to make myself look good? That sort of idea.

I have been struggling with trying to manage a bad situation God’s way. I have placed myself under some Christian leaders who have prayed for me and walked the path with me. Dear men. But the situation is not getting resolved and I am frustrated. This morning I was taking my walk and talking to God. As I had told these men, I told God that I really wanted to do things His way.

God’s Spirit interrupted me! He let me know that wasn’t true. He showed me that I was saying I wanted to do things God’s way to make myself look good. So that these men would think I am more godly than I actually am! (Now they may read this blog and find out what I am really like!)

When God’s Spirit tells you that – you don’t argue. I confessed that He was right and asked for forgiveness.

There are several situations in my life right now that I wish God would just get settled. But He is teaching me and I know that even in my frustration, He has a much better plan than I do. He sees my tomorrow. He knows my needs. He will take care of me. He will guide me. And interrupt my prayers if need be!

God is so good. I know I can trust Him – sometimes it is hard for me to put that into practice. It’s hard to wait in the dark but that is really what life is all about. I once heard someone say that this life is the only opportunity we have to trust Him in the dark. Once we get to heaven we won’t need to trust – just adore.

 

0 replies
  1. Sandy Cagle
    Sandy Cagle says:

    Yes, I totally agree. i read your book ; In Every Pew……..adultry in my first marriage, divorced, married the second time, same situations as yours, Ruth. And now, I am legally separated from him – I want God to do a miracle – I want restoration and reconcilliation and for God to be in the center of our lives – but He knows what is best -and it is hard for me to stretch my faith, and realize that not all things are going to happen the way I want Him to do it – also – we are dealing with other peoples wills, and of course spiritual wafare that does try to enter in. I need to first pray that God works in my own soul because I should not have decided to get married the second time. I cannot blame God if he sees I should “move forward” and wait upon the Lord, always.
    (I totally identified with your book – so blessed that I found it – down deep I know there is hope in God’s future plans).

    Reply
    • ruthgraham
      ruthgraham says:

      Thank you, Sandy. God is bigger than our mistakes, sins and dysfunction. Don’t be so hard on yourself. Remember what my father told me, “We all live under gace and do the best we can.”
      Paul Young wrote in The Shack, “Your choices are also not stronger than my prayers and I will use every choice you make for the ultimate good and the most loving outcome.” I would encourage you today, dear lady. Your life is messy – so is mine. But God loves messy people!

      Reply
  2. Robert Toney
    Robert Toney says:

    Ruth:
    Your honesty and truthfulness has blessed me since I have known you. You are an inspiration to me. I am going through a very difficult time in my life. I know God will make a way! You are loved and please bring your group back to Angola soon.

    Reply
  3. Nell Tiller
    Nell Tiller says:

    Dear Ruth,

    Your comments this time leave me with many questions. All I can say at this point is something someone said to me many years ago: “Let go and let God…”
    For whatever it is worth to you..there it is.

    Nell Tiller

    Reply
  4. Kathryn Duke
    Kathryn Duke says:

    Sandy, Ruth and Robert…I have messes too and I have known the Lord for 39 years!!. It does encourage me when I read your comments and know that we are not alone. And Ruth, I too struggle with my strong will.One step forward and four back…WILL KEEP TRUSTING TIL HIS LIGHT BREAKS THROUGH…
    Blessings to each of you and thanks!!

    Reply

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