Aspects of Austen

Do you know what I love about the book of Deuteronomy? In nearly every chapter, the words, "Be strong. Take courage. I will be with you wherever you go," or some variation, are present. These same words are repeated throughout the Book of Joshua, reminding us constantly of God's unfailing presence. Why is it, then, that we ask, "Where are you, God?" When times become turbulent, or the troubles of life seem to overwhelm us, we always seem to believe that God, OUR God, has abandoned us. We ask, "Why, God, why have you forsaken us?" questioning his plans, verily accusing him of being a liar. Because he promised that he would be with us wherever we go, and he's not here now, so the only possible conclusion is that he must have lied to us... Right? "Be strong. Take courage. You will lead the People of Israel in to the land I promised to give them. And I'll be right there with you." These are the words that the Lord speak...

I had something entirely different written for this week. It was a completely different post, filled with finished thoughts and a multitude of verses regarding obedience. But, there's something essential going on right now, right at this very moment. It is a true matter of life and death. What do you believe? I am not asking in order to push. I am not asking in order to illicit a debate, or discussion. I merely want you to ask yourself, "What do I believe?" In my case, I believe in the power of prayer. I believe in the power of healing. I believe that all things can be done through He who strengthens me. But I also believe in a perfect will for our lives. I believe that I could be gone from this Earth tomorrow, and have had no idea beforehand. I believe that I must hope and have faith, for that is all that is in my own control. I believe that God can use us as His vessels, no matter what our stories are. I believe in what James says in Chapter 1:5-8...

Mark 10:23-27- Looking at his disciples, Jesus said, "Do you have any idea how difficult it is for people who 'have it all' to enter God's kingdom?"  The disciples couldn't believe what they were hearing, but Jesus kept on: "You can't imagine how difficult. I'd say it's easier for a camel to go through a needle's eye than for the rich to get into God's kingdom."  That set the disciples back on their heels. "Then who has any chance at all?" they asked.  Jesus was blunt: "No chance at all if you think you can pull it off by yourself. Every chance in the world if you let God do it."  There are so many times in our lives when we mistakenly believe that our salvation is a product of what WE can do.  Yes, we know better, know that we were saved by grace and not works, but we act as though it is OUR sole responsibility to get to a place in which we can be righteous in God's eyes.  We live in a cul...