Previous Challenge Entry (Level 4 – Masters)
Topic: White (10/29/09)
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TITLE: Conversations | Previous Challenge Entry
By Allison Egley
11/04/09 -
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I know you can't.
But didn't You promise You'd never give us more trials than we can handle?
Sometimes things get a bit muddled. That verse is about temptation.
Well, with all that's been going on, I've certainly been tempted to do things I know aren't right.... And doesn't the same thing apply to trials?
Well, in general, yes. But there's an important second half of that verse that you seem to be forgetting. Go get your Bible and look up I Corinthians 10:13 and read it.
"No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it."
Look at the second part again. Who's going to provide the way out?
You.
Exactly. On your own, there is no way you can handle these trials and tribulations. But through Me you can.
But... I believe in You. I'm talking to You right now.
Don't forget, "...the demons also believe, and shudder."
Are you saying I'm no better than a demon?!
No. Just a reminder that a simple belief that I exist is not enough.
But I believe in more than just Your existence. I believe You sent Your Son to die for my sins and that He rose again the third day.
That's good also. But you're still forgetting something.
What's that?
Who's life are you living?
...My own, right? I mean, I can't live someone else's life.
But who gave you that life?
Well.... You did.
Now you're getting somewhere. I want you to think about something. Before tonight, when's the last time you spent quality time with Me, alone?
Ouch.
I don't remind you of that to condemn you. I say that to remind you of your priorities.
I... I guess I have been trying to live my life my own way.... Thinking that if only I pray to You enough, I can manipulate You into doing what I want. And then ignoring advice I know comes from You.
You're catching on more quickly that I thought.
But You know everything. How can I do anything You didn't think of... oh wait. You're being sarcastic. I forget sometimes that You have a sense of humor.
Oh, come on now... Who created humor?
You.
Bingo. I mean, if you really doubt that I have a sense of humor, just look at some of the animals I created. The elephant? The giraffe? Tell me those aren't funny to look at. And puppies! Need I say more? Ah, I love the sound of your laugh. And I like it when you blush too. Now, where were we? Ah. That's right. Priorities.
Ouch, again. You really know how to bring me down, sometimes.
I'm not bringing You down. Just a gentle reminder.
And one I need. Lord, here is my white flag of surrender. I give up trying to live life my way. I give up thinking that I can manipulate You through prayer. I trust in You, and in Your plan for me life, even when it's not what I want or expect. I run into Your arms, Lord, and cling to You and You only.
And I embrace you with My love. How do you feel now?
Peaceful. More peaceful that's I've felt since this whole thing began.
"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." I'll treasure your white flag forever. Sleep well, My child.
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I Cor 10:13 (NASB)
James 2:19 (NASB)
John 14:25 (NIV)
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Very well done.