God is Not an Indifferent Bystander!

For God is not an indifferent bystander. He's actively cleaning house, torching all that needs to burn, and he won't quit until it's all cleansed. God himself is Fire!

My dear child, don't shrug off God's discipline, but don't be crushed by it either. It's the child he loves that he disciplines; the child he embraces, he also corrects. God is educating you; that's why you must never drop out. He's treating you as dear children. This trouble you're in isn't punishment; it's training, the normal experience of children.

But God is doing what is best for us, training us to live God's holy best. At the time, discipline isn't much fun. It always feels like it's going against the grain. Later, of course, it pays off handsomely, for it's the well-trained who find themselves mature in their relationship with God.

The Message Version - Part's of Hebrews 12!

Life Lessons Never End

So have you ever played Pin the Tail on the Donkey? Well then you’ll know what I am talking about. It’s the “fabulous” kids birthday game where one child is blindfolded and handed a “tail” to pin on the picture of a donkey…if they should get so lucky…they might get close.

Ever felt like your life is like that? Well, lately it’s the picture of mine. I’ve felt like the one “chosen child” to be blindfolded for this “game” as everyone else gathers around to watch and laugh. After trying to be a good sport who just doesn’t get it, frustration overtakes me and the urge to rip off the blindfold and run out of the room for good. Hopefully to never see those laughing kids again.

Ya…I know that’s not so pleasant of a picture, but it’s a pretty good visual of a feeling. Ever felt life swirling around you and you just can’t make sense of it all? Not sure where to next…not even which general direction. These are very interesting times indeed.
So what does one do? Well I can only say hold on!

"Fear not, for I have redeemed you;
I have summoned you by name; you are mine.
2 When you pass through the waters,
I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers,
they will not sweep over you.
When you walk through the fire,
you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. Is 43:1-2



God doesn't come and go. God lasts.
He's Creator of all you can see or imagine.
He doesn't get tired out, doesn't pause to catch his breath.
And he knows everything, inside and out.
He energizes those who get tired,
gives fresh strength to dropouts.
For even young people tire and drop out,
young folk in their prime stumble and fall.
But those who wait upon God get fresh strength.
They spread their wings and soar like eagles,
They run and don't get tired,
they walk and don't lag behind. Is 40:31