"Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed. They did what your power and will had decided beforehand should happen. Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness" - Acts 4:27-29
When my father retired, he
had no health insurance and my mother had a major stroke which left
her partially paralyzed. At the time, I needed to set aside my academic
pursuits and help my parents through a very discouraging process. But, as
a result of my being with them during those days, I began ministering in our
church with a lovely young lady, who eventually became my wife. From our
marriage, came two fine young men who are both serving the
Lord. God always has a way of bringing beauty out of ashes.
The events of our Lord's
crucifixion were devastating if left by themselves. The hours
that followed the Lord's death were frightening and distressful for the
disciples. But, in this passage we see a new boldness that found
courage in the Sovereign work of God. As a result of Calvary, came
the resurrection and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. God always
has a way of bringing beauty out of ashes.
Does your life look
like a pile of ashes today? Have the events of life left you discouraged
and confused? Remember, the path of the cross was followed
by resurrection, Pentecost, and the power to serve. David said
it right in Psalm 30:5, "... weeping may remain for a night, but
rejoicing comes in the morning." Pray for courage and walk in
faith, believing that... God always has a way of bringing beauty out of
ashes.
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