Galatians 6

Gal. 4:14 But even though my condition tempted you to reject me, you did not despise me or turn me away. No, you took me in and cared for me as though I were an angel from God or even Christ Jesus himself. 15 Where is that joyful and grateful spirit you felt then? I am sure you would have taken out your own eyes and given them to me if it had been possible. Gal. 6:11 Notice what large letters I use as I write these closing words in my own handwriting... 17...For I bear on my body the scars that show I belong to Jesus.

I am curious about his condition and why he chose to say they would have taken their own eyes out to give to him. Then, again, the closing in the large letters written by his own hand. Is this something left over from the beating and abuse? And the scars, what a testament to circumcision...it sounds as if his whole body was "circumcised" by the opposition.

14 As for me, may I never boast about anything except the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. Because of that cross, my interest in this world has been crucified, and the world’s interest in me has also died.

As my husband got word today that he would be expected to begin (contract) work on Monday (after an enduring season of no employment and a prior season of slow and no-pay employment and obviously a seriously long season of specific prayer), I was unexpectedly reminded of the FACT that my hope is not in circumstance. Instead of being delighted with the prospect of a paycheck; I was brought to tears with the fact that my hope, my provision, my protection and my security comes not from what man works for, earns or can offer. It is only the Sovereign LORD of the Universe Who knows me by name that gives and takes away. Blessed be the Name of my LORD! I am also a bit saddened (am I crazy?!) to see this time of being so close to the Father's hand and seeing Him take such great care of us perhaps draw to a close. But I am not sure that THAT season will ever close for me as we have lived only by His abundant grace and favor this last year and more. (Please, Father, don't ever let me forget) It's a funny thing; but because of THAT cross (the grace and right standing it provided to me and the favor Father God showed me by drawing me to Himself for salvation) and the subsequent work He has done in my life through all of these situations and opportunities, my interest in much of this world has died - maybe it's dying a slow death; but I am not who I was, praise You Jesus...I am not too sure the world was ever terribly interested in me...despite the fact I have allowed it to influence me too much.

Glory to You God and Your Great Name. Praise and honor and majesty and perfection I ascribe to You. Let my interest dry up but for Your passions for my life. Let me steward the opportunities and obstacles with Your wisdom, grace and strength that You may be magnified in my life. I need You.

9And let us not lose heart and grow weary and faint in acting nobly and doing right, for in due time and at the appointed season we shall

reap, if we do not loosen and relax our courage and faint.10So then, as occasion and opportunity open up to us, let us do good [morally] to all people [not only being useful or profitable to them, but also doing what is for their spiritual good and advantage]. Be mindful to be a blessing, especially to those of the household of faith [those who belong to God's family with you, the believers].

What an encouragement that He is keeping track of our noble acts and right-doings. I know that our household of faith has certainly "done good" and blessed us physically and spiritually. While we could never repay, the harvest will of the "done-goods" and spiritual sowings will come. Thank You Father that You time the reapings and the sowings for perfect accommodation of Your children. Let me live out in love my faith that I may honor Your Name and Your Word and be a blessing to others.