Don't Lose Heart

¹⁶ So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. ¹⁷ For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, ¹⁸  as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal. - 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 (ESV)

Recently its been difficult for me to see past current circumstances to understand what God is doing. Being honest, I have experienced a very few difficult months, and it is tough even now to consider it "light momentary afflication." Part of me wants to scream out "HOW IS ANY OF THIS LIGHT?" It feels like the weight of a thousand elephants upon my shoulders. But taking a deep breath, I step away from myself and realize, in honesty, its nothing. Nothing compared to what it could be and nothing compared to what I've made it.

But this passage is beautiful, reminding me that this perceived huge weight will be replaced with an even bigger weight - not of trial but of GLORY. How beautiful is this promise God gives us. It will be beyond all comparison. I cannot see it, all I can see are the difficulties in front of me. Difficulties screaming at me "You can't make it. You are a failure. You won't last." But this promise, this truth of God reminds me of what is to come - to those who hope in Him. Glory. Eternal. These trials will pass. The pain felt from death of loved ones, from the words spat like poison, from whatever situation arises - it will not compare to the glory which is to be revealed. The eternal glory, on that beautiful day when there will be no more crying nor pain, and Jesus will wipe every tear from our eyes. So I press forward, and encourage you to press forward. Hope in God. Do not lose heart! We may feel as though we are being wasted away, but God renews us each day - every day is a new day. Continue in Him. You are loved, you are valued, and this too shall pass.

- Brummy

Blessed

"Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock." - 1 Peter 5:2-4 (ESV)

This past week has been an extreme challenge for me. But I have also realized what an amazing blessing I have, of the opportunities God has given me. I never dreamed that at 22 years of age I would be in full-time ministry. My life was a twist of ups and downs, even attempts to run from God. And yet here I am. So here I sit, writing this, realizing the charge God has given me, and that it is not an easy one. But I also want to say thank you, to whomever is reading this. That you have been there to support me, and I pray you continue to support me. I cannot give any reason why God has chosen me, I so often go back to the words of Paul, knowing that "I am the worst." Yet by the grace of God, here I am. A broken vessel being used to glorify God. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of the ministry at The Chapel in North Canton. I am so blessed, and so passionate for our future, knowing God has great things in store. Amidst the crazy storms we are all facing, continue to hope in God. And know that it is a joy each day being amongst you all, that I love you dearly. And more than that, God loves you dearly. Cling to Him. Look to Him. Trust in Him. Hope in Him.

- Brummy