The Final Exam

I recall a time when I happened to be reading my Bible at my desk, when a coworker happened by and asked me if I was studying for the "final exam", meaning judgment after death. He must have been under the false impression that whatever I would say to God upon my death would somehow determine my ultimate destination. It's amazing how many people in this world think that way - that they'll be able to somehow talk their way out of eternal punishment for sin. God already knows everything, so what could one possibly say to Him to change His mind about where you're going? Think also about the fact that He is sovereign and unchanging. Really, man - who do you think you are, believing you can play the con game with the Almighty?

I am reminded of that incident because it's finals time for me right now, on three different fronts. With this being the end of my first semester at Shepherd School, I've been taking extra time to study, write papers, and take tests. With this being December, the number of church functions to prepare for and attend have increased. With this being the end of my project's life cycle at the office, I'm trying to wrap things up there as well. My schedule is packed. Is it any wonder that I haven't posted a blog in nearly a month?

I have no idea how I'm managing to do all this at once, let alone where I'm finding the time, except to say that it is all happening by God's grace. For so many days now, I have gotten up each morning and admitted to the Lord that I can't do any of this on my own. I've asked Him to guide me; I've asked Him to walk with me; I've even asked Him to carry me. I've seen enough during these past few months to know for certain that God answers prayer.

God has used this busy time to teach me more about trust and obedience as well. I became overwhelmed with everything I had ahead of me early last week, and I responded instinctively, by making my own plans about how to get it all done. I forced my own way ahead, without consulting the Father first. The result was emotional withdrawal from my family and a quick slide down the slope of depression. After three agonizing days, I had to humble myself before the Master, admit how wrong I was, trust Him, and do things His way. It's amazing how much has been accomplished since then!

Father, please help me to learn your lessons well, so that I won't need a refresher course. Shape my life to conform to Your sovereign will, that you might be glorified in the life You have given me. I ask this in the blessed name of Jesus. Amen.

"The LORD is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him." - Nahum 1:7

"Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee." - Hebrews 13:5