Friday, September 02, 2011

DEVOTIONAL: Every Step


Every Step
By Iris Celeste


 
I tell you the truth, I don’t know why God hasn’t given up on me by now. I’ve been downright hard-headed. Disobedient. Been places I shouldn’t have. Entangled with the wrong party. Danced a two-step with the devil. Shucks, some of my thoughts have even been mischievous. All because it felt good at the time. See I’m not one of those ‘super’ Christians that others pretend to be. I mess up. Make mistakes. Slip and fall, sometimes skinning my knees in the process.

But inspite of all of my foolishness, God continues to find it in His heart to rescue me, keep me, forgive me, protect me, bless me, love me; while sometimes chastising me. It is only by His amazing grace that I am still here! Even when I fail, God is still faithful. Why? Because He knows what’s inside of me. He recognizes my potential. He foresees my future and views me not as I am, but for who I am becoming. He believes in me when I don’t believe in myself…The steps of a [good] (wo)man are directed and established by the Lord when He delights in her way [and He busies Himself with her every step]. Though she falls, she shall not be utterly cast down, for the Lord grasps her hand in support and upholds her. (Psalm 37:23-24)

He sketched and designed me just as I am, flaws and all…God saw everything that He had made, and behold, it was very good and He approved it completely. (Genesis 1:31) Therefore, errors are anticipated. He keeps close watch as I bebop down a dead-end road or two. He’s not surprised as I entertain seedy company or aghast over whispered conversations...He knows the way that I take [He has concern for it, appreciates, and paids attention to it]. When He has tried me, I shall come forth as refined gold [pure and luminous]. (Job 23:10) He understands some things have to be experienced in order for growth. How can I effectively minister to a desperate single mother had I not been desperate and now delivered? How could I empathize over a death of a marriage had not my own died right before my eyes, yet lived to praise God for reviving my lifeless spirit?

There are no accidents in life and nothing is wasted. Every step, every move, every failure was calculated by God and purposed for my good…We are assured and know that [God being a partner in their labor] all things work together and are [fitting into a plan] for good to and for those who love God and are called according to His design and purpose. (Romans 8:28) With that in mind, I resign all feelings of contempt when I blunder. I no longer hang my head in shame over an impulsive mishap. Because I realize every decision (good and bad) landed me in this very spot that I presently vacant…Blessed with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ. (Ephesians 1:3)

Iris Celeste, Author

Praise Your Way Through

http://www.irisceleste.webs.com/



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3 comments:

Unknown said...

Absolutely a good read....I'm right there with you Iris, but on the other side of this is that we are in relationship with a second chance God. I have no idea where I would be because of where I came from and who I am today PHEW I will just say this keep me in your prayers sis: LOL

This for this blog post so edifying!

iris celeste said...

Missy, I'm super thrilled that you enjoyed my 'testimony'! Keep reading and supporting SORMAG!

Unknown said...

@ Iris I sure will...and thanks!

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