Pastor John,
I wanted to let you know that the Malachi book has really touched me. Two sections in particular, “God hates by refusing to correct…but whom the Lord loves He chastens, and He scourges every child whom He receives”. That made me thankful for every time God didn’t let me get by. And the other was about God’s people not growing weary in well doing. When I finished reading the book, all I could do was get on my face and cry out to God. I felt like, “God, do I even know you?” And I asked God to help me not be bitter against any one in my life.
During some tough times at work, I’d talk to God on my drive in and say, “I don’t have to understand; just help me to do good for somebody today.” And He would help me! It’s been a painful lesson, but one big thing I’ve learned is not to be so hard on people when they make a mistake. God let me make a few mistakes, and I knew how I felt, and it taught me to have more compassion when others do, too.
Fast forward to this week at work, and when I least expected it, something very encouraging happened, a promotion and a raise! That made me feel thankful to Jesus for the painful lessons and for every time He has allowed me to help someone else.
Sending you a big hug. Keep us in your prayers.
Love,
Rebekah E.
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Wonderful testimony, Rebekah! And congratulations of the promotion! And remember what Psalm 75 says:
“6. Promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south.
7. But God is the judge. He putteth down one, and setteth up another.”
Pastor John