growing

Right now our two cats are as close as they can get to our fireplace with their ears perked up and total concentration. They hear, see, or smell something that has grabbed their attention. Oh, that I would be so aware of my surroundings.

A number of years ago, I visited a friend’s church that was structured very differently from other churches with which I was familiar. They did many things during the service that I had never done — nothing inappropriate; just different. I was caught off guard and had to work through my internal battle; I wanted to slink out the door. However, I needed to stay in the service, not just for my friend’s sake but for my own. I stayed, participated, and sensed the presence of God at work in their congregation. I need to stay in that service because I needed to be willing to grow as a Christian even if the process made me uncomfortable.

For all the uncomfortable situations our Lord may lead us into for our good, we have this promise: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27 NIV)

Photo by Milada Vigerova on Unsplash