I have a few people in my life that I genuinely admire. People whom have qualities or whose character truly stands out.
What
stands out about one such person…is her faith. It comes out…not just in
her words...which are quite eloquent…but in how she lives her life.
What she does, what she says…and how she treats people. It’s also quite
visible when I look at how she approaches God…understands Him…how she
loves Him and how she shares that love with others.
She
is ever so humble…and would be quite embarrassed if I were to reveal
her name. She would protest…and immediately give all praise to her
Savior Christ Jesus. Indeed…he has transformed this woman into a most
gracious example of His love.
One
thing that is apparent is her peace. No matter the circumstance…she
carries that peace. Peace which passes all understanding is deep within
her. The peace she has is not based on circumstances going her
way…happening within her time frame…or because she has been blessed
with perfect health or finances. Instead it’s an implicit trust in her
Savior…in His character and His word.
It’s
truly something to behold. When her prayer ends with “Thy will be
done”…it’s not just for show or a closing to a prayer. She doesn’t
hesitate to pray exactly for what is seemingly needed. Yet…she humbly
submits all things to God’s will. She has a boldness and confidence in
her prayers to God…yet she knows He will never answer anything that is
against His will. She is quite willing to relinquish the controls over
to Jesus.
Her
prayers give evidence that she truly believes the Bible when it
states…that God works all things together for good for those that love
the Lord and are called according to His purposes. Knowing that even
the direst of circumstances are not beyond God’s redeeming power.
Her
sight is not on her circumstances. She does not waver because she is
centered on Christ Jesus. It reminds me of a tiny sparrow tucked safely
in her nest in the cleft of a rock…as a storm wails and unleashes its
flurry around her…she remains safe, warm and dry.
Seeing
such faith lived out…not just for show on Sunday…but in everyday
life…is truly something to behold. Indeed she is tucked safely in the
cleft of the Rock…the King of kings and Lord of lords.
I
find it challenges me in my faith to come up higher. When I see someone
demonstrating such faith…and see the faithfulness of God…I desire to
have that kind of living and visible faith. It also makes me realized
how impacting our faith or lack thereof can be on others. That ought to
make me tremble with a healthy fear.
“Fear of the Lord…is the beginning of wisdom.” - Proverbs 1:7