Jesus.

I have the urge to blog, but just not sure what about. So, this writing might consist of random odds and ends, or maybe not.

I first want to start off with God's goodness. It is something that baffles my mind. Not only for me, but for others around me. When I began this whole blogging thing, I wasn't sure what it would all unfold to be- like the subjects of which I would write- but I just really wanted to start one. It seems that every time I click the tab "New post" the doings of the Lord begin to fill my mind and all I want to do is write about them. I feel that it is a waste if all I do is talk about myself. So here goes another post involving my Savior.

Do you ever have those days when you just really want to hear from the Lord? Well, I had one of those nights recently. There was something that happened that left me emotionally and physically tired. And the cause of this tiredness- was man's opinions and ways of doing things. Therefore, I was sick of hearing what man had to say and was ready for a word from the Lord. Something that was actually significant. Something that had depth. Something with revelation. And I didn't want to turn to any individual for help. My next step was simply to open my bible. I have recently began reading my Message bible, instead of the usual NLT bible, and it gives a different perspective on verses by the authors word choice. The scripture I immediately turned to was Matthew 5:1-12. And because I like this passage so much, I'm going to go ahead and provide you with the text:

"When Jesus saw his ministry drawing huge crowds, he climbed to a hillside. Those who were apprenticed to him, the committed, climbed with him. Arriving at a quiet place, he sat down and taught his climbing companions. This is what he said: "You're blessed when you're at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and his rule. You're blessed when you feel you've lost what is most dear to you. Only then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you. You're blessed when you're content with just who you are-no more, no less. That's the moment you find yourselves proud owners of everything that can't be bought. You're blessed when you've worked up a good appetite for God. He's food and drink in the best meal you'll ever eat. You're blessed when you care. At that moment of being care-full, you find yourselves cared for. You're blessed when you get your inside world- your mind and heart- put right. then you can see God in the outside world. You're blessed when you can show people how to cooperate instead of compete or fight. that's when you discover who you really are, and your place in God's family. You're blessed when your commitment to God provokes persecution. The persecution drives you even deeper into God's kingdom. Not only that- count yourselves blessed every time people put you down or throw you out or speak lies about you to discredit me. What it means is that the truth is too close for comfort and they are uncomfortable. You can be glad when that happens-give a cheer, even!- for though they don't like it, I do! and all heaven applauds. And know that you are in good company. My prophets and witnesses have always gotten into this kind of trouble."

The awesome thing about this passage is not all of the blessings, although they are a plus. The awesome thing is, is that God is with you in all of these circumstances. I also find it ironic that Jesus decided to teach his disciples at a "quiet place" when he was drawing huge crowds. I believe thats how Jesus still speaks to his people today. In a quiet way. In the midst of "large crowds" and confusion. Almost like he didn't even care if there were large crowds, but he wanted the ones closest to him to know that they are in good company, even through the worst of times. This, once again, reveals to me the greatness of Him. I don't care if everyone doesn't understand why I strive to live a life of worship, because I am in good company. I don't care if everyone agrees with what I believe in, because I am in good company. I know that when the largest storm comes against me, I am in good company. I also know that if I keep my mind and heart right, that I will stay in good company. Hallelujah.

"And if our God is for us, than who could ever stop us; and if our God is with us, than what can stand against..." -chris tomlin