Thursday, October 4, 2012

Be Cautious of the Comma

Call me a nerd, but I like commas. I like the mechanics of the English language. Adding or subtracting a comma can TOTALLY change the meaning of a sentence. 

Today, I was chatting with God and once again I was asking Him to explain His plan to me. 

"God, I'd just really like to know what's up. A hint, or a complete outline of the next year of my life would be really beneficial."

Yes, I am a broken record:

" I don't understand, God. Why is this happening?" Yada yada yada. 

And then, it hit me. 

"I don't understand God." is different from, "I don't understand, God." 

Did you catch it? Did you catch the comma?

I understand God. I understand who He is and the promises He has for me. And that, friends, is what will help us to get through this. 

I may not understand WHY I can't get pregnant at the drop of a hat. But, I understand Him, His promises, and His declaration of who He is:


Isaiah 40:29-31
He gives power to the weak
and strength to the powerless.
Even youths will become weak and tired,
and young men will fall in exhaustion.
But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength.
They will soar high on wings like eagles.
They will run and not grow weary.
They will walk and not faint.


Philippians 4:19

And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.

Romans 8:37-39
"No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us.
And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord."

Proverbs 1:33
"But all who listen to me will live in peace, untroubled by fear of harm.”

John 14:27
“I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid."


Jeremiah 29:11
For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.


Matthew 11:28-29
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.


So, be cautious of the comma. Cling to what you know is truth, even when it doesn't feel good, even when you doubt. We are not infallible; we have hearts that break and doubt creeps in when we least expect it. However, if you remind yourself of God's promises, and cling to who He is, you can make it through. And trust me, this is a reminder that I must slam across my forehead.  Every. Single. Day. 


1 comment:

  1. Rachel, I just found your blog, and this post was written a year ago. Wanted to tell you that this post in particular touched my heart. Thank you for sharing the Lord's truth. Thanks for sharing your journey with women like me who are just starting this path.... You're appreciated!

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