Good chilly morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the windy, cold day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice in it! Well, even though it is 51 outside, the sky is clear and sunshine will soon warm us up! So, things could be worse!
I watched a tiny wren flitting about in the freshly cut grass in the front yard yesterday, and a squirrel was eying me from the roof, trying to decide if he could make the leap from roof to tree limb. He finally decided it was too far.
I took a short stroll through the park yesterday, as far as the first shelter and noticed maple seeds on the boardwalk, even though the trees are still shedding. The warm weather has them fooled. I looked over the railing and watched ripples in the water, but couldn't tell if an otter was there or not. They really like the cool weather. Also, the azaleas I mentioned yesterday have started to bloom, so, even though it is still winter, we will have colorful flowers. Lots of homes have impatiens blooming in the flower beds. I wish I did! But God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Justice: What can I do when I suffer injustice?
Romans 12:17-19 "Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. Do your part to live in peace with everyone, as much as possible. Dear friends, never avenge yourselves. Leave that to God. For it is written, "I will take vengeance: I will repay those who deserve it," says the Lord."
Proverbs 20:22 "Don't say, "I will get even for this wrong. Wait for the Lord to handle the matter."
God teaches us to respond differently to injustice than the world does. Vengeance and retribution are the way of the world. God teaches us to trust in him and allow him to settle the score.
How can I respond to persecution?
Matthew 5:11-12 "God blesses you when you are mocked and persecuted and lied about because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted, too."
2 Thessalonians 1:5-6 "God will use this persecution to show his justice. For he will make you worthy of his Kingdom, for which you are suffering, and in his justice he will punish those who persecute you."
Persecution is part of what it means to be a follower of Jesus. God blesses those who bear dishonor and hardship for his sake.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
