A few years ago I met a delightful young woman. I immediately saw her beauty, sensed her innocence and felt her compassion. We became good friends and she helped me through some challenging times for which I remain eternally grateful.
She was working her way through college to become a nurse and receiving high grades in her major, anthropology. I’m lucky just to be able to spell it much less study it. She had the world at her fingertips but because of a few horrible choices she blew it. This weekend I visited her in the local county jail before she is transferred to a state prison facility for women. How tragic!
But all is not lost. She assures me she plans to turn her life around with God’s help and the blessings and comfort of His Son. Now that’s a good choice.
Read what Paul writes on Christian living,
“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world,
but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.
Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is –
his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
Romans 12:2
What wonderful words of instruction to those seeking a true and lasting renewal in their lives. This is change created from within and is sustained by the Father through constant prayer and humble repentence. By seeking His wisdom and guidance we are able to cope with the distractions of everyday living and enjoy a life pleasing to Him.
Gone will be the days of compulsive and addictive behavior, of destructive patterns and unhealthy relationships. In their place will be the hope and joy only He can provide and the love coming from His merciful grace. It is called forgiveness.
Listen to the words written by my favorite Old Testament prophet on God’s promises of deliverance,
“to open eyes that are blind, to free captives from prison
and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness.”
Isaiah 42:7
On the day my friend is released I will be waiting outside holding a fistful of encouragement, a pocket full of hope and a heart filled with love.
It all begins with a choice; a choice for God.
2 Thessalonians 2:16-17
Manna and Coffee 