I’m feeling distressed, oppressed, angry and vexed.

Several years ago, I decided that I would not make a habit of watching or listening to the news; because, let’s face it, it’s almost always bad.  Murders, thefts, and all sorts of immorality abound (also sounds like some forms of entertainment).  Recently, I gave “the news” another chance (stupid of me, I know).  Wow! I came away thinking that the world was doing worse than I’d thought.  While I’ve learned from God’s word to love His righteousness, I feel bombarded with the world’s message: “...get with it! It’s 2013, and the polls say...” Whether in specific issues about homosexuality or in general attacks from the so-called “new atheists”, evil seems to be abounding.  Then I remember the lessons from 2 Peter 2 -- judgment and destruction are still alive, even in 2013. 

I’m reminded of God’s judgment upon the unrighteous during Noah’s time and upon those who lived in the cities of the plains, including Sodom and Gomorrah.   God’s word testifies that Noah was a preacher of righteousness (v. 5); and, Lot, being also righteous, was tormented day by day because of the lawless deeds of those around him (v. 6-8).  Most importantly, I’m reminded that it’s God who delivers the righteous and punishes (destroys) the unrighteous (v. 4, 9-10).  So, when you talk to me and I seem not to have much to say about current events, I’m not trying to be difficult, nor have I chosen to be ignorant.  I’m trying to think on and have confidence in better things, Philippians 4:5-9. 

I’m feeling weary and worn.

Although my kids believe I’m ancient, I’m not that old.  But being on the basketball court just 30 minutes with my son the other day, I realize that my body is a lot older than my mind is telling me.  However, I’m not merely referring to my physical life.  I don’t feel I have enough time to do the things that I’d like to get accomplished.  I find myself doing those things that ‘just can’t wait,’ at the expense of forgetting the spiritually important things.  Then I remember that because I’ve been bought with a price, I am accountable to God to glorify him in my physical life, 

1 Corinthians 6:20.  To glorify Him, I must walk worthy of the calling with longsuffering, Ephesians 4:1-2.  I must be patient and not grow weary, Colossians 3:12-15.  I must look for those opportunities to do God’s goodness, especially for brethren, Galatians 6:9-10. 

I’m blessed. 

After thinking about the aforementioned things, I remember how God has been longsuffering with me, even when I’ve been an enemy (2 Peter 3:14-15; Romans 5:8-11).  He has abundantly shown His love towards me.  I know that none of us deserves His love or mercy; but, indeed, thanks be to God for His endless love and reconciliation.  The Creator is just, yet merciful, and does not punish me according to my iniquities; instead, He provides salvation through the sacrifice of His Son, for me (Psalm 103).  He allows anyone who wants to be called His child to come to Him now through Jesus.  He shows compassion to His children in providing for and protecting them.  Although our lives our short and finite, His love is everlasting.  Blessed be the name of the Lord. 

Really … I’m feeling fine. How are you? c