10/1/15
I find myself praying for different people and have noticed that whether through hurts and trials, or perhaps because of innate traits and characteristics, individuals need to be strengthened in various areas of their lives. One friend or family member could be empowered by more faith and boldness. Another might be blessed by an outpouring of mercy and compassion in his or her soul. As I was pondering this, I was amused by a vision I had of Dorothy's three traveling companions in the "Wizard of Oz." The scarecrow wishes for brains, the tin man needs a heart, and the lion seeks for courage. While the story of Oz is far from Christian in nature or intent, I couldn't help but think that perhaps the Lord sometimes sees us too with a bit of whimsy as we struggle along in our humanity, wishing for more wisdom, love, or faith.
When I first started walking with the Lord, my faith and my spirits were up and down like a roller coaster. I suffered with depression and fear. I found myself reading God's Word for long periods of time and then neglecting it for days, even weeks. Finally, one day I cried out to the Lord to make me a rock like Saint Peter! When I prayed that prayer I really didn't believe it could happen. It took a long time for me to learn that a steady walk with Jesus just takes good, old fashioned, faithful discipline.
I began setting aside daily time to praise and worship the Lord, to read scriptures and to pray. What a difference that has made in my life. I truly believe that time in the Lord's presence and reading His Word brings so much emotional healing and imparts strength and wisdom. I thank the Lord for others, pastors and friends, who prayed for and continue to pray for more of Christ to be formed in me. We are reminded, in the Scriptures to pray for the Body of Christ.
"Pray at all times and on every occasion in the power of the Holy Spirit.
Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all Christians everywhere."
Ephesians 6:18
So whether like the scarecrow, the tin man or the lion, we may need enlightenment, affection, or courage, let us seek the Master for His touch in all areas of our lives.
"Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." Philippians 1:6 (NIV)
"So all of us who have had that veil removed can
see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord,
who is the Spirit, makes us more and more like Him
as we are changed into his glorious image."
see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord,
who is the Spirit, makes us more and more like Him
as we are changed into his glorious image."
Found in Thessalonians 1 and 2 (NLT)
By Cathy Friberg
I think that in many ways we all have a bit personal afflictions that Dorothy's travelling companions suffered from. However it is to a much smaller degree. We sometimes lack in courage, or feel unloved, or need encouragement. When we seek Jesus for a spiritual prescription for these and other "maladies" He teaches us lessons from whatever we are going through and we gain strength and understanding.
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