In Christ alone my hope is found,
As I stood listening to these words ring through the air of Amway Arena, I couldn’t stop the tears from falling. The only words I could utter were, “Thank you, Jesus” over and again. The last time I stood in an arena listening to those words, I was hard and angry and wanted little to do with God. And somehow in a weekend, God made me believe that sin’s curse really had lost it’s grip on my oppressed, broken spirit. I cried then, too, as I shouted those words in victory.
I attended a Deeper Still conference this weekend, and as expected, God showed up and delivered 3 powerful messages through 3 women who strive to love Him with their whole hearts: Kay Arthur, Priscilla Shirer, and Beth Moore. First, let me just say that they were hysterical together! If you ever get a chance to go to a conference or a simulcast or do their Deeper Still Bible study…do it. They teach the Living Word of God. Nothing more. Nothing less. And not that it’s necessary, but they manage to entertain you while doing it. They are beautiful pictures of God’s redeeming love, the vast diversity in His creation, and the beautiful relationship that can exist between His followers.
I’d like to share just a little of what God taught me this weekend, through the guidance of His Holy Spirit, the truth of His word, and the inspired words of Kay, Priscilla, and Beth. He has placed before me 3 challenges. 3 calls to obedience. They are as follows:
- To be a woman of righteousness, who loves the things God loves and hates the things he hates. He says in John 14:15, “If you love me, you will obey what I command,” and in James 1:22, “Do not merely listen to the Word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” I want to be filled with the Holy Spirit so that I can understand His truths and then apply them to my life, discerning what is good and holy and what is evil.
- To be a woman who lives and thrives in His power, believing that He can do what He says He will do (Ephesians 3:20-21). I want to live in a rest of faith, trusting that He is the almighty God and His plans for me are good (Jeremiah 29:11), regardless of whether or not He chooses to do what I ask Him to do.
- For Adelle, to be a Mama she watches intently and in watching, learns that to follow Jesus is not a burden but a joy. To weed out what is not of Him is hard and to follow Him to the depths is trying, yes, but it’s also glorious because obedience, and therefore a more intimate relationship with Him (John 14:21), is something to rejoice in!
I am immeasurably grateful to my Jesus for continuing to rescue me from my absolute icky-ness. I exalt Him forever and forever. He is worthy to receive all the glory!
Keep on keepin’ it down and dirty real, folks. Love you!
On number 3…Adelle is already watching you and soaking in everything you are doing! Children are so perceptive and she will always know what's real in your life. Keep doing what you are doing…keep walking in the right direction and she will continue to see Christ in you. You are an amazing mother and I love you dearly!
Loved this post Emily. And, I love to watch how since you've become a mother… your relationship with Christ has reached a whole different level. I think it's hard sometimes for us when God doesn't do things the way we want when we think "clearly, this is the best for me, God". Trusting that God has got it… let it go… can be one of the most peaceful moments.
Love you… and I enjoyed this post Biss!