Give and Take

Probably one of the most famous statements in the Book of Job contains the words 'give' and take." Job announces that the Lord gives and takes away. Blessed be the name of the Lord: Baruch Haba Ba Shem Adonai. Those words cut and heal at the same time. Today is my birthday, and I can clearly see relationships, opportunities, and connections that God has both given and taken away. Truly, "Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return thither: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD" (Job 1:21).

Loss of connection and relationship is quite painful and requires self-alteration. Even if the relationship remains, howbeit not in its original form, that also requires adjustment. This year has seen much change in my life. I am in the process of downsizing; that equates to selling my home, car, and most of my provisions to embrace change: full-time international missions.

In order to embrace a new future, I must release the past. But the past means leaving ten years at the same school, my family,  the church families, friends, and my home for ten years that has received much remodeling and work. Even here and now, things and relationships are changing. I am changing.
The Lord gives and He takes away. Blessed Be His name.

His timing is always perfect. When I lay broken on the cement patio in a friend's backyard,  as copious tears ran down my face as I poured out my heart,  God was giving me an inestimable gift, for He allowed me to grieve when my body still held strength. He knew that six months down the road I would be cut from one end to another in major surgery. My body and soul could not face two betrayals at one time.

What I could have perceived as bad timing and lack of care were just the opposite. Abba saw further down the road, and He cushioned the journey.

Beloved, we are all in a season in which God gives and takes away. May you be strengthened as Job was in the midst of his fiery trials to proclaim: Baruch Haba Ba Shem Adonai. Y'Shua says when He hears these words, He comes; He returns to His people, and He saves them.

Changing,
MJ