Clara lived in a small village in Mozambique and was a survivor of violence, tragedy, and trauma. When presented with the gospel of the kingdom, she confessed Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior and received His forgiveness.
Clara’s identity changed, and so did her confidence. She was now a daughter of the King. She forgave her attackers so she could be free from the torment, anxiety, depression, and sadness that come with unforgiveness. The strength to forgive came from the truth and love of God. Clara then shared the gospel with others in the village and saw many come to faith in Jesus.
The past can’t change, but we have the gift of the present. Each decision we make influences the future. Our perspective determines how we live in the presence of God. We can rest, knowing this temporary life is incomparable to our abundant eternal life.
We all experience violence, disaster, war, famine, tragedy, trauma, calamity, death, and crisis, but we can be cheerful. Jesus has overcome the world, and we will too when in Him.
We can choose popular opinion or a proper opinion of the truth? El Shaddai, the Almighty, invites us to be faithful witnesses to the assurance of rest found only by dwelling in Him. God doesn’t give long lists of dos and don’ts. Instead, He provides a short list: enter a relationship with Him. He wants us to dwell, rest, and remain in the truth. Worshipping and serving Him is enough.
Place your confidence in the forgiving grace of God, then forgive and serve others.
(Photo courtesy of pixabay and artsysolomon.)
Sonia Ivy is a writer.