What I am doing that I have never done before is repeating a Thursday’s Thirst from long ago. The reason is because I am on vacation and getting old or lazy (or both). It was sent out on this date six years ago. I do not recall who the women were … but I know that I could quickly mention 4 … or 10 … today very quickly.
This week I have been with three incredible women. Each faces a very daunting problem – but each is presented very differently. For one, the problem presents itself as physiological. For another, the problem shows up as psychological. For the third, the world would see it as relational. But, like I said, this is just how the problems present themselves. And the fact that these women face these problems is not what makes them incredible, or exceptional.
There are two things that set them apart. The first factor that makes them incredible is the fact that they each realize that,no matter how the problems may appear to the external world, their REAL challenge is spiritual. They realize that “we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” (Ephesians 6.13)
And, secondly, “The word of God, (which) is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart” (Hebrews 4.12) is active is each one of them. In other words, through the power of this word, Jesus is doing some incredible things in each of them. He is bringing healing and hope, new strength and significance that is only beginning to show how God has set them apart for his unique and dynamic purposes. By God’s grace and mercy, they truly are exceptional women.
Did I say three? I meant to say five! This week I have also been with two other women who, like the first three, have faced problems that present themselves as physiological, psychological and relational. Additionally, they live with one very daunting, chronic issue … one for about 40 hours each week, and the other for about 40 years. Their daunting and chronic issue, quite simply, is dealing with me!
However, thanks be to God, that same living and active Word of God, Jesus, is active in their lives. He has given them unique and dynamic callings. And, when dealing with me – but not only me – the fruit of the Spirit abounds …. “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.” (Galatians 5.21-22). And, as of last night, number six has moved in!
As sinful women and men traveling through this beautiful, yet corrupt, world, we all live with daunting and chronic issues. They can present themselves in many different ways, but, when you get to their core, they are all the same. And, to get healing to that core, we need something that is “sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart” (Hebrews 4.12) However, as that living and active Word of God becomes a regular part of our lives, its healing power enables us to hear and believe the Lord as he declares (to each of us), “I know the plans I have for you, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart.” (Jeremiah 29.11-13)
So, my “Acts 4.13b” friends, who have you been with lately?
Duplicate One – Women!