PERFECT TRUST

Tomorrow I face a situation. Not a difficult situation, but for some reason for the last couple of days it has caused me to feel `sick' - you know the headache, stomach and muscle aches and the worst of all is these incontrollable shakes. I guess it could be the symptoms of flu, or it could just be fear.

I have a job interview!! Part of me is telling me not to stress - it doesn't matter whether I get it or not - that's in God's hands. The other part of me is feeling that same old `failure syndrome'. If I don't get it, what will people think of me - a failure again!! Part of me, still wants to be in control.

There are a number of things I do when I feel this way:

1) Pray- CLAIM GOD'S PRESENCE. That's number one of course. There is nothing more calming to the spirit than talking to the Father, telling God about my worry and leaving it with Him.

"Seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you." (Matthew 6:33)

2) Read. I go the Bible - RECOUNT GOD'S PROMISES.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lead not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6

"Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord is the one who goes before you. He will be with you; He will neither fail you nor forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:8

I am again reminded that I am to let God take the lead, to take over the controls.

"God will smooth out your path. He'll take away the obstacles. He'll take care of those barriers when you come to them. If you do your part - give Him the steering wheel and trust him to be in charge - He promises to make your path straight." (Charles Swindoll: "Perfect Trust", 2000, Thomas Nelson)

I remember the last time I went for a job as a Chaplain and God said `no, not now", I was comforted by the fact that I had been obedient, and this is what God had asked me to be. I walked in obedience, as best I understod it and followed his will. The failure still hurt at first, but it made it easier to except.

"God honours faith and obedience. When you trust Him completely, you will enjoy inner quietness and security. You will have a secure confidence that you are walking in His will. You will be surrounded by His peace." (Charles Swindoll: "Perfect Trust",2000, Thomas Nelson)

I AM FEELING BETTER ALREADY!!!

3. Listen to Music. PATIENCE. I know I should be listening to my Worship Songs - those great Hillsong hits - but I can't help it, I just love my Doug Horley (UK's favourite Children's Fun & Funky Worship for Kids).

Before I know it I am jumping around and dancing to those promises that God loves me, nothing is too big for His power, and my favourite at the moment, "You are Shaped for Serving God".

"If you walk like a model or walk with a waddle
You are, you are, you're God's indeed.
If you're very, very funny, or good at making money,
You are, you are God's indeed.

God had a brilliant plan when he created man
He knew just how each one would serve Him.
Wonderful indeed, gave you what you need,
To work on earth for Him.

You are shaped for serving God,
You are shaped for serving God,
You are shaped for serving God,
Holy, holy is His name.

If you laugh like a donkey
Or you're hairs a little wonkey
You are, you are, you're God's indeed.
If you're really good at caring
Or a little brave and daring
You are, you are, you are God's indeed.

If you're good at origami,
Or can make a great salami.
You are, you are, God's indeed.
If you're fast as a whippet
Or really good at cricket
You are, you are, God's indeed.

Doug Horley & Steve Whitehouse. (2005, Thankyou).

I AM READY TO FACE WHATEVER GOD HAS IN STORE FOR ME!!

Oh the shakes are still there, and the headache hasn't gone away, but I know that I am girded with the power of God, for I am ready to go forth in obedience to follow His will, and to face whatever He has in store for me. I have claimed God's presence, recounted his promises and now wait patiently on Him, trusting in His provision.

I ENCOURAGE YOU TO DO THE SAME!!