so when there are long rows to hoe, it seems like the typical response might be to say that "the Lord is leading you to a destination unknow but far better". or that "God is strengthening you for a purpose that remains to be seen". BUT I don't know if I recall earthly trials being equated to fearing the Lord so that you might stop being a jerk-head.
exodus 20:20
moses said to the people, "do not be afraid. God has come to test you, so that the fear of God will be with you to keep you from sinning."
I like your first equation, but I would use respect instead of fear --- testing equals respect equals being good. Kind of like students who test you - smackdown - improving classroom behavior. Kind of like toddlers who test you - smuck the tiny fingers - don't touch again. But, just like some toddlers, some of us need to test again and again and again. Just like being on weight watchers. Can I eat what I want? When I weigh in after being 'bad' - the scale reflects it and I am 'good' again until my human nature wants to test the waters. So, I would translate the word fear into respect and honor and love for God to help us think before we act and try to be more like God. A constant struggle because of our sinful nature. I woke up this morning with this song in my heart for you, "Therefore I murmur not, Heaven is my home. Whate'er my earthly lot, Heaven is my home. And I shall surely stand, There at my Lord's right hand, Heaven is my fatherland: Heaven is my home!" God Bless your work and play today.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree mom ~and the more I know God the more I want to be like him.
ReplyDeleteHEAVEN IS MY HOME!