FRIENDS OF GOD

It’s surely clear as crystal that God is with the strong. There never seems to be a word for those who get things wrong. I don’t think that it’s cowardice that God the Father hates. It’s those who can’t be bothered and leave things all to fate. He’s surely with the failures as much as with success. For failure can be turned around with Father God, to bless. It seems to be the sluggard that really gets His goat! It’s like He wants to catch the guy and grab Him by the throat. Of course, that is what people do. Thank God He’s not that way. So please no accusations ascribed to God. OK? I guess it is embarrassing to be the source of power, With people only wanting to turn away and cower. It must be a temptation to say “Grab a hold of this, I won’t let you go under. You certainly won’t miss” But we must be courageous and let Him undergird. We won’t be disappointed no matter what we’ve heard. It isn’t in God’s nature to tolerate a wimp. He’d rather you kept walking forever with a limp. This, if you can recall it, was rather like your dad. He laughed when you were laughing and cried when you were sad. Regardless of what happened he came and cheered you on. He put his arms around you when all your hope was gone. If that’s a human father then what about the Lord? He does at least as much for you as any can afford. He’s said He’ll never fail you. He’s always there to aid. He’ll watch you when you’re having fun, jump when you’re afraid. He’ll always be your helper. No matter what you do. Be confident that He is near to make His promise true. Perhaps you missed out college, because somebody died. Then He will qualify you if, in Him, you abide. He won’t ever tempt you. That’s what He’ll never do. The devil will try hard enough to take control of you. But he won’t be successful if you do what God says. He’ll come and will deliver you from Satan’s evil ways. He will not leave you all alone, to find your way ahead. Instead, He’ll be the light, to follow where you’re led. This is the Lord we’re serving. This is the God Who cares. Your life is safely in His hands; He’ll answer all your prayers. His face will shine upon you. He’ll drive away all fear. Just ask Him to befriend you; He always will be near. Jim Strickland – written Tuesday, 12 July 2011

J