Sometimes we reach a point where a repurposing of all things not surrendered to God the Father, is necessary. (Rom.12:2). Yeshua described it…”If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness!” (Matt. 6:23).  If there is to be any encouragement, any love and peace, any satisfaction and rest; then it must come from God and flow to others. (Eph. 2:4,8; Rom. 5:12; Gal.5:13).  My destiny is not contingent on having friends, nor anything others seem to have or desire.  My destiny is dictated by the presence and work of God within my innermost being. (James 4:8; Eph. 2:10).  For there to be any virtue God must have a free hand to do all that is necessary and good.  God requires exactitude even in graciousness. God will not abide a veto vote or amendment to His decree. (Acts 26:14 ff; Deut. 1: 26 ff). The past is gone; the future yet to come. (Heb. 3:7).

I’m afraid…that God’s way will yield embarrassment, ridicule, contempt, insults, unpleasantness…these are feelings of pride, when pride is crushed, upon being abased — humbled.  Pride must be extinguished, this poisonous lie, soul sickness, rot and death that resides within. (Ps. 10:4; Prov. 11:2).  It is the barrier to life, supply, healing, encouragement and the closeness of God’s presence.  Of course, God can do the work or we can simply humble ourselves, which is a far less invasive procedure. (1 Pet. 5: 5-6).

Lord God Almighty, see if there is any wicked way in me, restore my soul, and lead me in the way everlasting.  “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me.  Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.  My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise.” (Ps. 51: 10-12,17).