dear Christian brethren...

i am so glad that i am a Christian. what would i be without you, Lord?

and what is a Christian who isn't being forced to grow? there is no such thing. at least there hasn't been in my life. God is really stretching me right now...did i seriously think that would end after the rigors of 2007? sanctification is a life-long process.
a tiring, difficult, hurtful and BEAUTIFUL process.

right now, i feel very confident though. i have been forced to go to the Word so much lately, and i feel as if God is showing me grace and granting me wisdom in time of need. He is always faithful...i had to be reminded of that.

He is teaching me the most about healing, forgiveness, and reconciliation. their place is preeminent (or at least, it should be) amongst the people of God, and, when those things don't happen, strife is inevitable. i have before me a very clear picture of how the root of bitterness thrives and destroys when christians choose to ignore problems. i see how openness is essential and how prayer and conviction play into the big picture. i see how hearts are hardened, and people are blinded to their sin. and i see how God is above all of this.

i am holding my temper and praying for grace, and He is giving it to me. how much longer it will last...we shall see.

i do know this. i am completely and surreally removed from the ridiculous situations that human beings create, and i understand that everything comes down to the fundamentals. DO JUSTICE, LOVE KINDNESS, AND WALK HUMBLY WITH YOUR
GOD. when we don't do that, it is obvious, and we know it deep down in our heart of hearts, whether or not we admit it. if this isn't happening, then repentance and forgiveness are available to us.

i am letting go of my foolish notions and relying instead upon the Rock...a foundation that cannot be shaken.

i feel very joyful right now...and i didn't expect it.