In my family anxiety and worry have been significant through several generations, and I am not exempt. I do believe that just as we are all different with different gifts and weaknesses, yet family 'genetic pools' so to speak, often pass on traits we would like to do without. Yet many personality strengths are inherited too. What we do with these weaknesses and strengths is the most important thing. I have to deal with anxiety on a daily basis, yet the Lord has used this very weakness of mine to encourage others who suffer the same way. People tend to think, "If she's the pastor's wife and she has these anxieties, I can't be as sinful as I think I am." They forget that I am just another child of God struggling with human weakness as they are. But God doesn't forget. He knows what I am. "I am but dust". Conversely, He knows what I wish I were. So I take comfort in the fact that I am not what I would like to be even though I may try very hard, yet God knows my frailties and "underneath are the everlasting arms". When I wonder why any one loves me at all, He is my refuge and He assures me that He loves me "just as I am". One day I will be all that He wants me to be and there'll be no more looking back, no more regrets, just me, a sinner made perfect by the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Can't wait!
6 comments:
Boy, do I relate to these words, Chris. Thank you for the reminder that even when no one else loves me, God indeed does.
I needed the reminders found in this post, in a very real way just now.
Like your family, mine have also been "anxious" people and the trait is passed down just like the musical gifts that come from the same family line.
Those of us who are both Christians and worriers give ourselves an added burden which says: If I were REALLY a Christian, surely I could give these things to God, learn to trust and to wait....?
We are made of very imperfect stuff and life hands out some burdens which are heavy.
I struggle to grasp that my faith walk isn't going to change what I have inherited in the way of health issues--those of both body and mind---what I hope is that my faith connection, however humanly faulty---over-rides the genetics and the painful situations--allows me the grace to cope.
We can't have too many reminders that He does love us dearly, loves us with all our "leopard's spots" which are part of our earthly "pelt." He invites us to lean on the everlasting arms, just like a small child who comes to a parent or grandparent for a reassuring hug.
That He know who I am is not in doubt. I think He would like to see the last of me. LOL
I think He is forever in us as we are in Him.
Mom always told me if you are going to open your mouth and speak, "Say something meaningful."
Wow! So very well put. Of course I too can relate and can't wait either.
beautifully put!
Wonderful words of encouragement for those who battle anxiety.
Yes, us Pastor's wife, are very human, and I think it is good people see that, and how we handle those weaknesses.
Good word for the day, Chris!
Post a Comment