adversity

"Every adversity that comes across our path, whether large or small, is intended to help us grow in some way. If it were not beneficial, God would not allow it or send it, “For he does not willingly bring affliction or grief to the children of men” (Lamentations 3:33). God does not delight in our sufferings. He brings only that which is necessary, but He does not shrink from that which will help us grow."

-- Jerry Bridges

Gal1:6-2:10

Listening to John Piper speak on Galations 1:6-2:10. I'm blown away by Paul and his rock-solid steadfastness in remaining true to Christ's teaching. That it is a gospel of justification by grace alone through faith alone on the basis of Christ's blood & righteousness alone to the glory of God alone. There is no compromise. He did not yield in submission even for a moment, so that the truth of the gospel would be preserved (2:5). And after meeting with the apostles and being received by them (thank God! otherwise the church would not exist to this day as we know it), they are reminded before they are sent out to the Gentiles to remember the poor (2:10).

some facts:::

• 85% of the poorest of the poor are in the 10/40 window
  
• 95% of the least reached people are in the 10/40 window
  

These figures disturb me. lost people = poor people...

There are 3 groups/'callings' in which we can slot ourselves in..

1. one who goes
2. one who sends
3. one who is disobedient
   

.. where am I?

We read how the poor is so intimately entwined with Jesus' ministry, and its interesting how the poor often seems to be linked with being unreached (lost ppl = poor ppl). Jesus consistently gave special care over those on the fringes of society, who were oppressed and physically & economically disadvantaged. He emphasizes this kind of generosity and concern for the poor to his disciples. And in turn they remind Paul of this too as he's sent to preach to the Gentiles...not that he needed reminding, since he was already so eager to do it (2:10). But same goes for Christians, for myself. For a compassionate heart stems out naturally from one who has received forgiveness through the blood of Christ. There is such a yearning in my heart to reach the unreached, to go alongside the poor, and yet I cower or perhaps overfill and crowd out any time in my day-to-day schedule. I cover this yearning up with busyness. And busy for what? ... ah. The biggest conclusion I can make is that I'm in need of much prayer. Direct my steps, and by your grace open a way for me to go. Send me!