As many of you may know, Steve lost his job this week. This is undoubtedly a hit to our financial standpoint, our life plan (key word there is our), and our pride. Now, Satan would gladly have us snap into panic-mode, especially me, but I don't think stressing over our current circumstance is productive or right. The Bible says, "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you" 1 Peter 5:7. God promises to care for us, so we must take comfort, have faith and cast all of our anxiety on him, every last drop of it. Here's the thing, the Lord is not blind to our situation; in fact, he is allowing this to occur, he is unfolding his mysterious, good and perfect will before us, so what must we do then? Stay on purpose. This struck me as we began our study of our purpose in youth group this week. We believe, as Christians, that our ultimate purpose is to glorify God and enjoy him forever, and this doesn't change based on life happenings. Our purpose is constant because Christ is constant. 1 Corinthians 10:31 says, "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." As we think eternally and turn heavenward, we realize that not much has changed. We're still on purpose, we're not doing things differently, just doing different things.
Here are some verses that we are clinging to now. I hope you are encouraged.
Commit your work to the LORD, and your plans will be established. The LORD has made everything for its purpose... -Proverbs 16:3-4a
As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. -Isaiah 55:9
Truly God is good to Israel, to those who are pure in heart. -Psalm 73:1
Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. -Romans 5:3-5
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." -Jeremiah 29:11
Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge. -Psalm 62:8
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. -Romans 8:28
This blog is a peek into our adventure of life as young, married people living in the great city of Richmond with our sweet little girl and two big goofy dogs. We love to have fun and share our life with others, so enjoy the stories, photos, updates and random thoughts!
4 comments:
Steve and Helen,
I too lost my job in the last couple of weeks. While things will be tough for some time be encouraged that through this time Meredith and I have found great comfort in the provision of the Lord.
Steve,
I have only been unemployed about two weeks longer than you, but if you need anything. A brother in Christ to talk to, a friend to vent to that has some sense of what you are going through, or just want some help networking and finding that next job please call me.
Marty
757 620 7567
Hey Helene!
Did Summer told you that she started her own blog? Here it is http://summatimesworld.blogspot.com/.
See you on Wednesday. I hope so.
hey friends-
we are praying for you! your perspective is awesome and a great example of true faith in Christ. we are SURE that the Lord has great plans for you guys. Let us know if you need anything.
love you! kristen and aaron
The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in Him. Nahum 1:7
Hey, the code for the marriage conference is CRUSADE. We got it when the rainey's came to speak at Christmas Conference. You guys should totally go to a conference! I know that they have some in northern va coming up. I have been praying for you both during this time! Love you, Helene!
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