The courage to be called

It takes courage to follow Jesus! When Jesus called his followers, he told them simply to come on. He didn't sit down with them and help them figure out a plan of action, he made a request and expected obedience. 

There are several examples in the bible where we see uncertainty from people. Jesus tells us he will take care of those that follow him. 

“Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. (Luke 12:32 ESV)

What we have to do is have the courage and faith to follow through with our calling. Fear creeps in as soon as something bigger than ourselves begins to happen. 

The reality is, circumstances bigger than ourselves are sure to happen when following Jesus. It's his plate not ours and his plate is greater than anything we can imagine.

So when we find ourselves scrambling and searching for answers, the best answer is to be still and listen to that still small voice. Jesus has the answer and he will take care of it all, we have nothing to fear! 

A grateful believer in Jesus Christ, 

Johnna

How Joseph Recovered

The story of Joseph is one of the most amazing story's of recovery and reunification to me. 

After being sold into slavery by his jealous brothers, Joseph later becomes exalted in all of the land Egypt, his importance to the people , second only to Pharaoh. 

After many years, Joseph's brothers travel to Egypt during famine for help. Approaching him, they begged for relief, not realizing at the time he was their own brother. Joseph takes care of them and their families. 

The brothers made amends out of fear after their father dies but Joseph knows that God's hand has been in his life and used every bit of his trials for good. This is what he tells his brothers... 

"But Joseph said to them, “Do not fear, for am I in the place of God? As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today. So do not fear; I will provide for you and your little ones.” Thus he comforted them and spoke kindly to them. "(Genesis 50:19-21 ESV)

Sometimes, we find ourselves in unfair circumstances. People intentionally hurt us for various reasons. Sometimes these offenses causes disturbances in many relationships. Joseph didn't see his father for many years and his father thought him dead, as a result of his brothers actions. 

Forgiveness and healing come when we are able to turn our circumstances over to God. When we put our faith in him and not in people, then we can work out our relationships, even the most difficult ones. 

I have to admit, there are still relationships in my own life that have not found healing, three years into recovery. There are also many relationships that have been made new and they are beautiful. 

Today, I pray for you to learn from Joseph and the example he set. I pray for you to trust that God can use you exactly where you are, regardless how you got there, and he can make it better. God can and will restore your life, let him! 

A Grateful Believer in Jesus Christ,

Johnna