Gamaliel...

I am sure no one is trying to be discouraging, but they are!

Well, let me clarify to fully explain! We are (as if you don't know by NOW) leaving to begin deputation. We are very excited, and like anyone who is experiencing a radical change in their life, are going through some emotional and mental breakdowns followed by moments of hysteria and paranoia fluctuations. (Please... that is a joke! We are really doing well!)

But the point still remains, sometimes we don't want to hear about everyone's perspective related to deputation, fund raising, and the current state of our country and it's lack of... shall we say "fiscal solvency". Yes, that sounds good. We are fully aware that now is not an easy time. We know we are prepared to (by choice) walk away from our really well paying jobs with full medical and dental insurance - as soon as the Lord makes it clear that IS what we should do. We also know not everyone has two extra nickels to rub together, let alone twenty or so bucks to throw to some missionary who feels called of God to go somewhere.

All that being said, we press on.

We know the moving of the Spirit on and in our life and hearts. We realize some of the choices we have already made look a little nuts to some, and absolutely irresponsible to others. We (I am sure not fully yet but...) know the road ahead of us is filled with trial and testing, if not a few tears and times of doubt (please LORD direct our path and sight to YOU).

But we also know the God we serve! He is faithful, and He alone knows what we need. He is who is holding our hands, and even if we were to close our eyes entirely- as long as we hold on to Him- we will get where we need to go. (That may be a very good idea, yes???)

In my quiet time today, the Lord must have really known I need a little shot in the arm. (ya think??! :o} ) As I read in Acts, these verses ministered to me in a way unlike any other time.

Acts 5:38-39

And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought:

But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God.

Wow! I was so thrilled to hear what Gamaliel proclaimed to all the people, himself being a Pharisee! He went through a bunch of examples of people who came and went, stating if the apostles were not of God, they too will go by the wayside. BUT if they were, and the message they brought forth was of God, it will not only stand but gave a warning... don't fight it! Whew!

We truly believe and have examples to share that confirm we are called of God. Our message is the same as Peter's and the other men! Repent and be Saved!!! Oh that we pursue in the face of adversity like those men! If and when we are "beaten and commanded not to speak in the name of Jesus", that we leave "Rejoicing that" WE "were counted worthy to suffer for his name"!!! Oh the faith and examples we have to follow! Oh the Great God that we serve!!!

May we press on in full conviction! May we Never doubt or fear what man can do (or say!) but fear God who is able to both reward and condemn!