Our lives often 'don't follow the script.' Mine hasn't. When we follow a script, we know exactly what to say and do so we can play our part with poise and avoid the possibility of failure. A script reduces risk. When we can anticipate what’s coming next, we don’t have to worry about being caught off-guard or feeling unprepared. A script creates comfort. Once we master our lines, we don’t need to navigate unexpected plot twists or sudden scene changes. We may pride ourselves on careful preparation and then get toppled by the unexpected. So cling loosely to your own script and hang tightly to God’s promises. They will never fail.
Proverbs 19:21, “You can make many plans, but the LORD’s purpose will prevail.”
Psalm 37:23, “The LORD directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives.”
Monday, September 12, 2016
Tuesday, September 6, 2016
What is a Friend?
What is a friend? I will tell you. It is a person with whom you dare to be yourself! Your soul can go naked with her. She seems to ask of you to put on nothing, only to be what you are. She does not want you to be better or worse. When you are with her you feel as a prisoner feels who has been declared innocent. You do not have to be on your guard. You can say what you think so long as it is genuinely you. She understands those contradictions in your nature that lead others to misjudge you. With her you breathe freely. You can avow your little vanities and envies and hates and vicious sparks, your meanness and absurdities and in opening them up to her they are lost, dissolved on the white ocean of her loyalty. She understands. You do not have to be careful. You can abuse her, neglect her, tolerate her. Best of all, you can keep still with her. It makes no matter. She likes you. She is like fire that purges all you do. She is like water that cleanses all that you say. She is like wine that warms you to the bone. You can weep with her, laugh with her, pray with her. Through and underneath it all, she sees, knows, and loves you. A friend, I repeat, is one with whom you dare to be yourself.
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