Brother, we are all guilty. I need to be more sensitive and learn to listen for His words before I speak. You are my friend, and a precious one. This will work out just fine. The One who is NEVER guilty will ensure it. You just got hit with one of the blindsides most survivors will be hit with on their journey.....brutally shocking...difficult. He knew you were ready. And He will deal with it...and heal.
Romans 8:1 ASV — There is therefore now no condemnation to them that are in Christ Jesus.
The Lord snatched me up from this world wide-eyed and clueless, brother. I've always loved your penchant for visuals and so I offer that one up for your consideration.
Yes, wide-eyed and clueless. You've referred to such a thing as a sovereign act of God and while I've never thought of His will and purpose in such a way, I understand where you're coming from. Remember that I wasn't "brought up" in a way familiar to you or
@TLHKAJ ... and many on this forum and elsewhere for that matter. The Lord declared it, and so it was.
"The Lord declares it, and so it is" sums up my experience with Jesus Christ and defines those differences between us. These difference don't divide us by any means but as we've been learning, they can lead to friction between brothers. I wasn't in a position to articulate this to you in a meaningful way because it took what happened to make it possible. So what does this say?
It was a set-up. To clear the air so folks don't entertain notions foreign to the working of His Spirit in us and through us, I examine the
fruit of this set-up and as always, bear witness to the marvelous works of the living God.
The Lord did indeed speak of the trial some time before it commenced - "the Lord declares it, and so it is" - and I'm exceedingly reluctant to reveal His words though I'm not constrained from sharing the essential truth with you all: just because the Lord declares it and I hear Him, doesn't necessarily mean I
understand some of the words which proceed from His mouth. I don't walk in this understanding until
they come to pass.
This is pleasing to the Lord who declared that He is my Teacher, Provider, God, and Friend. I learned that portions of His words are meant to be directly experienced by the listener, and this is how He intends for us to come to an understanding suited to His purpose.
Wide-eyed and clueless,
@Jostler . That's the visual I have for you today. I hope it helps, brother.