STAY SWEET IN YOUR SOUL (Russ). Pastor Roy Walden Senior
I heard this quote from Russell Walden on ‘Outpouring America’ (new series on Spiritual Fathers/Mothers – Part 1) and it stayed with me. The Lord told Russ to leave his high level ministry position, deputy director of a denomination and serve his father, while working to support himself and his family. Russ was placed in a hidden/obscure role for a lengthy period(God’s dealings with us are thorough) after having having risen to prominence at an early age.
The Lord Himself, had to keep His own heart free of bitterness even while in great pain and suffering, hanging on the cross. Despite the mocking of the religious rulers Jesus said, “Father, forgive them for they do not know what they are doing”. He also forgave one of the two criminals hanging there with Him, “I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise”. Luke 23:34, 43.
Paul, had to endure great hardship and physical abuse for the sake of the Gospel. Yet some of his own spiritual children in the Corinthian Church, caused him much grief.
So I made up my mind that I would not make another painful visit to you. For if I grieve you, who is left to make me glad but you whom I have grieved? I wrote as I did so that when I came I should not be distressed by those who ought to make me rejoice. 2 Cor 2:1,2,3
David said, “Even my close friend whom I trusted, who ate my bread, has lifted up his heel against me”. Ps 41:9
Often it seems that those closest to us and who have the power to hurt us the most are those used to wound us! Yet David, Paul and the Lord Himself kept their hearts right before God.
Two kings in the Old Testament, Asa who served the Lord for many years and Ahaziah, who appears never to have known the Lord, turned away from Him in anger/bitterness and died in pain and misery.
Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring (source) of life. Prov 4:23
The painful experiences and God ordained trials of this life will either make us BITTER OR BETTER. Many exclude themselves through anger or bitterness from their God given destinies.
STAY SWEET IN YOUR SOUL!
God bless and keep you this day.