Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Rebecca's Journey - 106

15 October, 2008

Dear Friends

The other evening Paul and I had a fight. We've known well for years that we must forgiven each other and come to some resolve before we go to bed. (Yes, we have had many very late nights!) It was a hard evening, but a good one, and we went to bed at peace. This morning I was in my quiet time when he came in, dressed in suit and tie on his way to the Parliament. He gathered me in his arms, expressed his love and commitment, and asked me again to forgive him. Of course I did, but, I really think I needed to ask forgiveness from him more than he from me. He left and I turned back to my quiet time. The Lord led me to Ephesians four and five. I know these scriptures are so familiar, but oh, it was as if I'd never read them. "Let no corrupt word (my Bibles' notes say 'corrupt' is literally 'decayed, rotten, as used for spoiled meat') proceed out of your mouths." (Eph. 4: 29).

Oh Lord, my words must have smelled terrible to You!

And then He goes on in chapter 5, "...walk in love, for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness, righteousness and truth ... find out what is acceptable to the Lord". From verse 15 and on, "Walk carefully, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be unwise, and understand what the will of the Lord is."

Oh, Lord, what a wonderful goal, and what a high goal. It really is reflective of You!

For many years I have said that my life is a miracle, and I am so aware that if there is anything good it's a miracle of His grace changing me. I am encouraged because he is faithful and good. Change always begins when He reveals to me what is in my heart. Rather than being discouraged when I see my sin, I need to be greatly encouraged because that means it's on the way out. His Spirit is there filling me with Himself, and progressively making all the changes of Ephesians 4 and 5.

With love, Rebecca

From Paul: Part of His faithfulness is revealed in the wonderful people He sends to help care for Rebecca and be part of our live here. Anna Kopechek is here now, from Columbus, Ohio. She is one of these lovely young women whom the Father has sent. Our thanks to her folk, her family, and her church.

I leave day after tomorrow for 2 and a half weeks in North America. If you think of it, please keep us in your prayers.

Paul