When the Thorn Pricks

Yesterday was a rough day for me.  I didn't feel well, I was agitated by traffic as I tried to get to work, and I let the uncertainty on my job get to me.  I was stressed and couldn't find my footing.  I was telling myself to walk in faith and yet I was still feeling the disturbance of the days events.  I desired His peace.

I didn't like that my reactions were not matching with what I knew to be truth:  The Lord is my Shepherd ( Psalm 23:1).  He is going to provide what I need and the junk of this day is temporary.  It was so ironic that I had to deal with the thorn in my side that I had just written about that morning. 

I especially didn't like that I wasn't being a good example to the very people I try be a witness to.  I later apologized for my reaction to the stress and for not setting a good example.  I also told them that even in this His grace is sufficient. 

Why did I do that? I felt like I had a responsibility to God and to them.  Walking the "talk" is real for me.  I wanted them to know that my actions did not match up with His word, but God is still present and vital.  I didn't want to excuse my disobedience.  I had a choice yesterday and I chose my flesh and I chose to give into fears instead of turning it over to God.  

Some may say that it doesn't "take all of that".  That I didn't need to reach out to others.  It  may appear to be over the top, but I was led by the Spirit to be obedient to what He required of me. For to whom much is given  much is required (Luke 12:48). I am accountable to God for my actions and I am also my “brothers” keeper.  My desire is to not be a stumbling block, but rather a stepping stone that leads them closer to Christ. 

So yes, the thorn pricked me yesterday, but I am forgiven and saved by grace.  He has given me a new day.  I can leave yesterday and it's cares behind.  I walk in grace.  I am justified by my faith and not my works. My works will improve because of the faith and grace He gives me to do them.  


****PS  Today was a great day!  He will do it!