What is Best?

I am only now beginning to understand the deep meaning of the concept of “the joy of the Lord is my strength.” Sometimes being overseas and separated from people and life in the States is quite difficult. Sometimes I think, “Will this be my life? Should I be gaining good career experience in the States? Should I be trying to earn more money?” And then the answer comes, “This is my plan for you. It is the best.” My eyes are then opened to the fact that God’s plan is better for me than what I plan. I can rest in joy that I will not miss anything that is good for me. That joy then becomes my strength to persevere and to pour my heart into these children God has brought into my life. Why me? I do not know why God has allowed me, a broken weak child, to be a part of His plan. I am joyful and thankful that He has redeemed my lost heart and brought me to Him. I’m joyful that He invests in me and determines my steps. I’m joyful that I have my lifetime, however long that might be, to serve the Lord. Joyful to serve because He loves me and He is good, not just good, but better than what I leave behind.

Waters Gone By

The following song is one of my very favorites and will always remind me of my time in Thailand.

Waters Gone By

by Shawn Lewis

You will lift up your face without shame
You will firmly stand with no fear inside
You will surely forget your troubles and pain
Recalling them only as waters gone by

If you put away the sin in your hand
And allow no evil to dwell
If you devote your heart
And stretch out your hands to Him

You'll be secure for there is hope
And you will safely take your rest
You will lie down
With no one to make you afraid

But the eyes of the wicked will fail
Darkness gives way to morning's light
Life will be brighter than noon day
As the waters go by into the night

I will lift up my face without shame
I will firmly stand with no fear inside
I will surely forget my troubles and pain
Recalling them only as waters gone by