Sunday, October 16, 2011

Weekend Worship—Brilliant Colors

And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us. Romans 5:3-5

Fall is my favorite time of the year. I love the cool, crisp days that bring relief from summer’s heat. But most of all, I love the beautiful colors adorning the trees in our Blue Ridge Mountains. My husband and I get great joy from driving through the mountains to see the changing leaves. It always amazes me how vibrant the colors are and, until recently. I took that beauty for granted.

Last year, I learned what makes the trees brighter some years as opposed to others. The intensity and brilliance of the colors is virtually unaffected by the amount of stress the tree has suffered during the previous season—as long as it has plenty of rain. That knowledge stopped me in my tracks, as God immediately began to apply its spiritual truth to my life. It didn’t matter how great the trial, as long as I looked to Him for provision, I could come through triumphant.

Inevitably, I began to think about people around me who’ve suffered intense pain and come through to a place of peace. I could see that the constant in their lives had also been the Living Water of God’s Spirit, sustaining them, no matter the stress. The more God worked through their stress and suffering, the more vibrantly His brilliance shined through them.

Now this knowledge leads me to a choice. Will I fight God’s plan, turn my back on Him, and seek the path of least resistance—the path that leads to a life without color? Or will I let God transform my trials and tribulations into brilliance?

9 comments:

  1. That's such a great lesson! Love the photography too Edie!

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  2. What a great analogy Edie! I love Fall too, but never thought about it that way before.

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  3. I needed to hear that this morning - the Lord has spoken to me through your message. Thank you!

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  4. Ladies, thank you! These pictures are ones I took this past Friday. God's really been speaking to me about staying connected and viewing my circumstances differently.

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  5. ummm, that was good! This time of year really shouts God's glory to me also!

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  6. Beautifully written. And your smile is testimony to the truth in that message.

    Love and hugs!

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  7. I never thought of it in that way. I have been through so much stress in my life and sometimes I feel beaten down. The constant has always been God's willingness to keep lifting me up and showing me a purpose for me - not necessarily the pain. I find myself showing brilliant colors (on most days) as I learned to trust Him to provide what I need, not just what I want.

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  8. Great post, and such an interesting analogy. Life's lessons can be demonstrated in all kinds of ways.

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  9. Edie, love that encouragement. Your photos are wonderful. Our trees here in FL rarely turn. :(

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