So far, this has been a very restful time visiting with Tom’s parents—and we so needed it! Yesterday, I was able to work out in their workout room, and it felt good to get on the treadmill again.
I did receive some interesting news from one of my girls, though. She said our house situation has been really difficult for her. She views losing our house as a failure, and because of that, she’s begun to question our judgment and ability to minister to others. She told me she needs to distance herself from me (and us) for a while.
That was a surprise, and it took me a few minutes to process. The more I think about it, I can understand her point of view—but I also know too much about her and her situation. As disconcerting as our circumstances may appear, I wonder if she might be using this as an excuse not to face her own healing journey. It may be easier for her to shift blame than to take responsibility for her part. That said, if I were in her shoes, I might have the same questions and concerns.
Here is Oswald’s devotion for today—so fitting, as usual:
June 28
Held by the Grip of God
“Not that I already received or already have been perfected, but I press on, if I also may lay hold, inasmuch as I also was laid hold of by Christ Jesus. “ Philippians 3:12 –
Never choose to be a worker for God, but once God has placed His call on you, woe be to you if you "turn aside to the right hand or to the left" (Deu_5:32). We are not here to work for God because we have chosen to do so, but because God has "laid hold of" us. And once He has done so, we never have this thought, "Well, I’m really not suited for this." What you are to preach is also determined by God, not by your own natural leanings or desires. Keep your soul steadfastly related to God, and remember that you are called not simply to convey your testimony but also to preach the gospel. Every Christian must testify to the truth of God, but when it comes to the call to preach, there must be the agonizing grip of God’s hand on you --- your life is in the grip of God for that very purpose. How many of us are held like that?
Never water down the Word of God, but preach it in its undiluted sternness. There must be unflinching faithfulness to the Word of God, but when you come to personal dealings with others, remember who you are --- you are not some special being created in heaven, but a sinner saved by grace.
"Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do. . . I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus" (Phi_3:13-14)
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