Pastor's Corner
November 2006
“When I am afraid, I will put my trust in Thee. In God, whose word I praise, In God I have put my trust; I shall not be afraid.”
Psalm 56:3-4
Dear Church Family,
I believe it was C.S. Lewis who once said something to the effect that “you don’t know how strong the rope is until you are forced to hold on to the rope.” That statement and the Scripture above from Psalm 56 combine in my mind today as I write this article. They are there because I find myself facing a situation next week which is allowing me to “test the rope” if you will. It is really quite minor in comparison to what so many in our church family have faced. In fact, it pales in comparison to the trials of those I’ve heard of even this week! But for me it is at least an experience in trusting God and having faith as I’ve taught others to do based on God’s word for years! The “test of the rope” for me comes as I face having my wisdom teeth out (at 51 years of age no less!). Now at this point you might shake your head and let out a chuckle; especially those of you that have gone through this procedure as “a piece of cake”! Let me explain though what has caused me to be challenged to “put my trust in Thee”. It was the consultation where the doctor tells you all the things that could go wrong. The one that got me the most was the possibility of permanent numbness of the lower jaw area and even affecting the tongue. For a preacher that certainly doesn’t sound good! Now I heard all the assurances of the doctor as to the probability of this (very low) and his own experience, etc., but it was still put out there as something to ponder!
Again, this is so minor as to not really sound worthy of bringing it up. I do so though because it is for me a chance to “test the rope” of my faith, not in a doctor or nurses or medical science, but in my God who tells me that “when I am afraid” to put my trust in Him and then “I shall not be afraid”. Perhaps I will be seen as a big chicken (at 6’5” I am a rather large chicken!) but I am determined to be one who holds on tight to the rope of faith and trust in our great and glorious God! There is no doubt in my mind that the “rope” will hold. I am convinced of that same assurance and confidence for you in whatever test will come your way in the days and weeks ahead. The rope will hold because God holds the rope!
Serving with you,
P.S. Words fail me in saying “Thank You” on behalf of Jeanelle and I for all the wonderful cards, gifts and words of encouragement we received this month of October for “Pastor Appreciation”! Please know how much we appreciate all of you!
