“But our God is in heaven; He does whatever He pleases” (Psalm 115:3).
Dear Praying Friends:
What an affirmation of God’s absolute and total sovereignty! He dwells in heaven, far above the world he has made, and he “works all things according to the counsel [Greek: good pleasure] of His will” (Ephesians 1:11).
To my shame, I confess that I am not always pleased with what God is pleased to allow, or even send, into my life. All too often, I grumble and complain. But if I say I love God, should I not also love the way he rules the tiny part of his world that is my life?
After all, he is good and deserves praise and glory for his mercy [steadfast love] and truth (Psalm 115:1) – that is to say, the glory of Jesus Christ, “the only-begotten of the Father, [who was] full of grace and truth” (John 1:14). This is the God who was “pleased to bruise [crush]” his beloved Son, who died for our sins (Isaiah 53:10).
And he causes all things to work together for good for those who love him and are the called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28). We usually don’t see any “good” in our difficulties, but sometimes the Lord is pleased to give us a glimpse of part of what pleases him.
For example: I often think that one of the purposes of the Lord in allowing – or even sending – various minor ailments and injuries into my life is to give me opportunities to share some aspect of his truth with the medical providers who care so well for me.
During several visits to my podiatrist for treatment of my plantar fasciitis, I’ve had amazing conversations with her about the gospel. The last one culminated in my inviting her to our church. Well, she came yesterday! She gave no indication of what she thought, but this prompts us to pray for her and for wisdom to know how to follow up.
Thank you for praying last week. The story on Pearl Buck’s father is now up to 7,300 words, and I’m beginning to see some light at the end of the tunnel.
Additionally, please find Pastor Peter’s latest ministry report on my blog: Wrightdoyle.com. He is a remarkable servant of God, and I commend him, his family, and his multi-faceted ministry to your prayers.
Yours in our Lord’s sovereign grace and truth,
Wright
