Journal Entry Date: February 24, 1997
God got me up early in the morning, and I had a good Bible study time. In fact, God was preparing me for the events of the day. “Dave” was supposed to meet me so we could go to Clint and Mary’s together, but he never showed up and everyone else was already paired up. It became obvious that God wanted me to visit this family by myself. I called to make sure they would be home and got a pretty cold reception from Clint, but he said to come on out. I had a wonderful time of prayer and preparation on the way to their house.
I could sense that the real reason for this visit was for God to talk to Clint. I can’t really recall everything that was said that night, but Clint definitely seemed to be hurting. I spent about an hour talking with Clint, and he was very bitter, almost angry, about God and religion.
Talked some also with Mary about how to study the Bible, and then left about 8:30pm. On my way home I prayed, cried, and pleaded for this couple. It just really broke my heart to see such pain, knowing that it can be healed.
I know beyond a shadow of any doubt that God gave Clint and Mary what they needed to hear and see, and that He will answer my prayers. God willing, I will someday get to see how He changed their lives.
Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord God Almighty! What an incredible experience. I just can’t describe it all in words.
About 10:30pm Dave called. He was doing in-service and they ran late… just as God had ordained it to happen. By the end of the day, I was exhausted, but spiritually energized.
Author’s Note: We often don’t get to see how God is going to use events, situations, interactions… We just trust and know that God is good (Psalm 107:1) and He desires and works all things out for good for those who love Him and who are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).
Regardless of whether or not we get to see first-hand the ultimate outcome, we are to be faithful… and intentional… in sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ. This reminds me of what Solomon wrote in Ecclesiastes 11:5-6…
As you do not know the path of the wind, or how the body is formed in a mother’s womb, so you cannot understand the work of God, the Maker of all things.
Sow your seed in the morning, and at evening let your hands not be idle, for you do not know which will succeed, whether this or that, or whether both will do equally well.
I continue to find it amazing that God chooses to work through flawed, broken, fallible people like us in order to accomplish His good purposes. We can take none of the credit… It’s all due to the power, mercy, grace, and lovingkindness of the one true living God… and it’s all for His glory.
Maybe you’re reading this and you’re the one who’s hurting or broken. Like Clint, you may have even experienced pain and rejection from those claiming to be religious. Just know that Jesus has not rejected you! Cry out to Him and surrender your life into His perfect, loving care. Allow Him to soothe your hurts, mend that which is broken, and call you His very own.
My Abiding Life 