Light of the World

This past year (2015) has been the most difficult year of my life. I’ve learned a lot about myself, but also about God. I look back on everything that has happened, and I am overwhelmed with all the blessings given to me and the lessons I have learned through this storm. The Bible says if we seek God with our whole heart, we will find Him. I think sometimes we take that for granted. Every time I called on Him, He was there waiting.

I had to remind myself over and over that the enemy was attacking me so ruthlessly because he saw me as a threat. He knew that I trusted God would carry me through that situation one way or another and that both angered and terrified him. He was willing to do anything to break me down, to turn me against my God. Once you are able to see the whole picture from a heavenly view, it is so much easier to let go of the bitterness, anger and pain and sincerely forgive people and move on. Colossians 3:2-3 states “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.” This perspective taught me to find my worth in Jesus. Even when I was lonely, I felt comfort. When I was feeling unattractive and unwanted, I felt loved. When I was unappreciated, I felt purpose.

I am living proof that, even when things get difficult and you are being attacked left and right, God is already there – waiting. Nothing comes to you without going through Him first, which means that He is already prepared to help you through any situation if you let him. Sometimes He does calm the storm, but sometimes He lets that storm rage and calms you instead. Never, ever forget the big picture. Do not get caught up in the self-centered mindset of the culture we live in. Things will happen in life that are not fair. Do not allow yourself to give into self-pity – this is one of the easiest deceptions the enemy loves to use.

Call on Him, trust Him, and do what He says – putting aside your own fears and the opinions of others. Because I kept my trust in Him, even when it seemed as though there was no end to the storm, He delivered me in His perfect timing, blessing me every step along the way. He has put this mission trip on my heart and I cannot wait to see the plans He has! Psalm 18:28 says that our “God turns darkness into light.” In turn, we need to be His light to the world (regardless of how it treats us).

“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden…In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
Matthew 5:14 & 16

Blessings!!!

Emily