Thursday, September 13, 2007

"Holding the hand that holds the world"


Albert Zaporteza called me a few days ago and warned me about the shock of being out of your hometown and being put in a situation where you sink or swim. I didn't know that it would be this hard. But for how much tribulation there is always enough grace. God was not going to let me do this alone, just without Filipinos. He is holding my hand. I just had my head turned around towards home that I couldn't even see him. jumping in the truck and driving 1900 miles is probably the best thing I could have done for my walk with the Lord. I realized how much I was dependent on the people around me. I wouldn't have caught such idolatry had it not been for this journey. Yeah, I miss everyone like crazy and I wish you guys can see the grace that is out here but, in gaining perspective, there is an eternity that all who believe in the Lord Jesus will enjoy together in Him. Amen!!! What's 3 years? I encourage anyone who will read this to journey out of their comfort zone and see the grace of holding the hand that holds the world.

7 comments:

Rubyellen said...

We look forward to seeing how God will grow you through this...I think you needed this and it is a good thing!!! Depend on him more...

Yes...it means girl said...

Yek...yes, I know that the Lord is using this to grow you and your love and dependence on Him. I had such an experience this past summer, though it was not as far away and not for quite so long. But, when I was in Camp Alandale for a week I didn't have my family, my comfort, around and I knew I had to trust God. I knew it was good for me to be away and rely solely on the Lord and I know it will be an awesome time for you as well. Praying for you, my dear broham...

Gen said...

"Holding the hand that holds the world" why does that sound familiar. I want to say that's a Dela sister line but not sure. Well yekkie of course God knows what's best for you and He knows how to perfectly accomplish that. One day when our family decides to leave Cali (shh) then we too will be able to experience what you are experiencing. But until then I see God's grace now with all the changes in life. We will continue to pray for you and see how the Lord is going to mold you to be that Givorim guy!!!

My name is Frances said...

We love you and pray for you, but like you said it is a good thing that you are out there. Learn as much as you can from that godly man (Piper) and others that are there and bring it home (if that is where the Lord calls you) and teach it to the young guys and men here and let them see your life as an example.
Elijah giggles at the video.

bianca. said...

hi! its a blessing God's taking you out of your comfort zone. it encourages me to step out too. im so scared He will take me out of mine. and if i dont take myself out of it, He will. so i should do something about it but im scared. its too uncomfortable. haha.

God is good! said...

I really praise God that you went out there for many reasons...one is knowing that He is going to grow you and use you for His Kingdom. I am excited to see how He is and has grown you while your out there.

Eleazar & Heather said...

Once you wake up there is a small reminder that you are back to where you were "safe" and comfortable." But then you fully open your eyes and see that you are not there...you find out that you are alone in a place that is different, that is not quite like home...it hurts to think that you may never go back and be able to tell those close to you how much you love them, how much you care for them, how much they have been a blessing to you. You think and are drowned by grief. It weighs you down and all you want to do is close your eyes and think of all the "good times" back where it was familiar. Then a voice calls you and tells you that everything is okay, everything is just as it should be. There is nothing to be worried about, to be anxious about, because no matter where you are, no matter what situation you are in, HE is there, watching over everything. He says that he is in control...he says that he will bring comfort and peace...he says that he will bring a way of escape through him...depending on him, he says, is the only way to get out of the sea of despair and loneliness...He comforts you with these words of "I will never leave you, nor forsake you.." words that wil forever bring joy, peace, comfort and happiness even in the midst of pain. His will stands. His will is pure and true, only for your benefit...for your happiness. The waves WILL continue to come. it will even seem that once again you are drowning in your own mistakes and pity...but then that voice once again calls compassionately. he says that he has not left and that he is there willing to help you and to take you back into his arms. He reminds you of the peace that comes from trusting him...

I understand what you feel...it is hard but his grace will abound more and more. When I told you that you needed this, I knew with confidence that God will use this to stretch you. Being alone will determine who you are in Him...it may not look pretty, but be patient, God is not done yet...you will be encouraged by the bigger picture.

we love you and are praying for you

El & Heather
(eleazar-heather@blogspot.com)