“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” Psalm 91:1

Written in 1980

Someone told me that we seldom learn anything once for all in the spiritual realm and I had just experienced this truth. Coming from the Middle East to Germany has been a shock culturally, and I have forgotten at times two important biblical principles.

First, that our “struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world…” (Ephesians 6:12). It is easy to see the people behind the slow bureaucracy here as the problem, instead of the spiritual forces using them!

Second, “…in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Rom. 8:28). This means seeing that delays are things God uses for good. When I forgot these two truths, I fell into the swamp of impatience and self-pity; but the Lord Jesus, in His magnificent patience and splendorous grace, set me back on the right thought paths.

He did this by bringing  Scripture to mind. I am ever grateful that the Lord had me memorize many passages, like  “Give thanks in all things." (1 thes. 5:18) and “…run with endurance the race that is set before you, looking to Jesus the author and finisher of our faith.”(Her. 12:1,2). This are high level thoughts,, ones that transform and I was very glad the Spirit brought them to mind.

Tomorrow, more on how the Lord worked things out.