Little Let-Me-Downs

“Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all men generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. For let not that man expect that he will receive anything from the Lord, being a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.” James 1:2-8

“This book of theology -- speaks to those who lose their faith because of a sharp sense of disappointment with God” (no matter how deeply hidden or consciously rejected). “They expect God to act a certain way, and God’ lets them down.’” (as they read the Bible and draw their own conclusions or listen to others who tell them He should).—“Others may not lose their faith, but they too experience a form of disappointment. They believe God will intervene, they pray for a miracle, and their prayers come back unanswered.” *

A believers faith usually doesn’t come crashing down with some dramatic change, although a dramatic change is a “great” opportunity to use it as an excuse; most lose hope when they stop to count the number of “wrong-in-their-minds” answers to their prayers. They consciously or unconsciously have a laundry list of little let-me-downs that grow into a spoken or hidden litany of complaints that distances them from the love of the Father. Trusting God is the answer.

Take care to understand His Word. Your servant and friend in Christ, Darlene

PS: New Request: Deb, a very special friend in the States (diagnosed with multiple Myeloma); Michael (his mum grows more frail); Randy (unexpected changes in his life); Helen (Wendy & her mom, Helen’s husband had a heart attack). For Kevin (wisdom with his son). Praise: David (great health now!); Leslie (growing stronger from chemo); Both Nancys (growing stronger & more patient (one with chemo - the other recovering from serious head trauma)); Thanksgiving for: Reg, Carla and Paul. Pray for: Tim & Barb (need work & encouragement as they wait); Freddy (to come home & see his mom); Eddie (responding to chemo); Rachael (for hope & clarity of purpose); Adrian (many life changes); Isaias (family safety & his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA. Wisdom for doctors caring for Doris, David, Poetry, Gary, Adrian and Jack.

*Disappointment With God, by Philip Yancey