How many times have we been told we have “blown it” too many times for God to actively take control of our situation and use it to His glory? Romans 8:28 offers assurance that this is not the case: And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them”.
“Pray” watercolor by Amy J Heath
In the last edition of the Sonrise Magazine, I gave a synopsis of my testimony in an effort to encourage others to move forward. Since I wrote that article, I completed a study on second chances from the book of Philemon.
You see, when I first came to Sonrise Christian Center, I, too, was basically starting over after years of having a well-established life. But I “blew it”. At one moment, I decided to act inappropriately and caused confusion in an area. Because I did not have a repentive heart, I was asked to seek fellowship elsewhere until certain conditions were met. I kept in touch with the individuals working with me, and God started to deal with me. In the end, God gave me no choice but to straighten out the problem, even though I was beginning to move forward and enjoy my new life. Of course, enjoying my new life was based on the fact no one knew what had happened, so there was no accountability. Then God put me into a position where there was accountability, and I had to walk through steps to get my reputation cleaned up. It was not the easiest thing to do, but God saw me through it, and so did those in leadership.
You see, I was in a position of authority at one time, and I “blew it”. I wrote about that in my last article. After 20 years of starting a new life elsewhere, and after my reputation was built back up, due to a wrong choice, I “blew it” again. Was God finished with me at this point? After all, I am now 66 years old, and this was not so long ago.
This article should give some hope. Romans 8:28 really wraps up the fact that once turned over to the Father, God can use it all for His benefit and for the benefit of His Kingdom. The result will be Him shining in your life. When people can look at how the answer came through it leaves no doubt that the answer was a God thing. The book of Philemon supports this. Paul wrote a separate letter regarding Onesimus, a slave from the city of Colossae, who had run away from his position, in Philemon’s house (no fault of Philemon.) In Rome, Onesimus had become a follower of Jesus, and since then, was working with Paul. Paul hoped that by writing a separate letter on his behalf, he could convince Philemon to give Onesimus a second chance.
As I looked at this book for my homework assignment at Seattle Bible College, I knew I also had to write about my experience for this magazine. Because in the same way, I have been graciously given another chance with letters of recommendation to support that second chance as I prepare for graduation in June. I have prepared my personal testimony, supported by letters of recommendation. I have permission to send the package out, starting in December 2024, to pastors in the area, asking if they would like a special speaker like me. The theme of my message when I am asked to speak will be, It’s Not Over, because God is not done with me yet even at 66, and He is not done with you either. So, whatever it is you are going through, make sure to have those mature in the faith around you hold you accountable, and trust their prayers for your life. It is vital that you keep them posted on what is happening so that these leaders and pastors can attest to your progress. This way, one has prayer partners to help carry them through and praise God with you when the answers begin to surface.
Since I voiced that I was going to write this, I find myself in the worst situation of spiritual warfare I have ever experienced. I won’t share the sordid details here, but it is quite serious, and I have done the same as what I have said in this article. I have let people around me assist me in prayer, and they will be walking through this with me. You do the same and allow others to assist you as Paul assisted Onesimus.
I leave you with the song, My Life Is In Your Hands by Kathy Troccoli, which meant so much to me when I found out I was going blind. I hope the words touch your heart as well.
Jenny Andersons is a natural born Seattleite and has lived in Washington all her life. She has faced many years of struggles including losing her sight to Stargardt Macular Degeneration. Trusting in God is a daily priority. Jenny has two grown boys, Daniel 43 and Robert 41, and a six-year-old granddaughter Noel. Jenny is seeking her bachelor’s degree in Practical Theology from Seattle Bible College. Jenny’s favorite hobbies are concerts, time with family and friends, boating, and traveling.
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