Philippians 4:12-13 (NIV)
I know what it is to be in need and know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.
This passage holds special meaning for me. For those of you who don't know, I lost my job at the end of March. I am one of millions who have lost their job, but am not struggling with it as much as I anticipated.
A few months ago, while in a book study, I saw this passage with new eyes. For some reason, I felt compelled to copy it onto my white board at work and place it within my eye line. Since I was a kid, I had Philippians 4:13 committed to memory. But with new eyes...a verse I had heard many times before struck me(verse 12). The whiteboard with this and other quotes and scripture hung in my eye line until that very last day @ work.
You know what, I LOVE this passage...it reminds me that no matter what, I will be OK.
I KNOW there was a reason that God put this in front of me each day...as if He was preparing me for what was to come.
People have asked me how I am doing, and I am not lying when I say I am doing well. Yes, things are tight...but I really am OK, because emotionally and mentally I am good. He has provided me with some wonderful learning opportunities, amazing friends and family (including those I serve alongside, whom I have to come to view as my family). Plus, I have learned a lot about myself through this process.
I really think that I have taken more time to stop and smell the roses in the past few weeks than I had in a couple of years. I don't take things for granted anymore. I am focusing more on the journey than the task at hand (in everything). Through this, I have learned that the real beauty is in the journey itself.
A funny thing happened to me yesterday...I ran into someone I had only met a couple of times before and he asked me why I was always so cheerful...I told him that there is no reason for me not to be. That is truly how I feel!
Things are tough all around us, but we must be careful to realize that God is trying to show us something...and sometimes we have to just let go and let God. And remember...when God nudges you (with scripture, circumstance or another person) DO NOT ignore Him!
-Gina
All I can say Girlie is AMEN to that. We all have to just let go of things and let God do his stuff... That is how I keep my sanity sometimes. I just look up at the sky and say HERE YOU GO GOD, IT'S ALL YOURS....
ReplyDeleteHugs,
ME