From The Crucible (by Pastor Linda Pugsley)

Those who know the Lord and have His salvation should have and demonstrate the joy of that relationship. Yet far too many remain bitter, cold, confused and have unfulfilled lives. How can this be?

This happens when you live by what you “feel”, instead of by what you “know”. You can “feel” like eating certain things, yet “know” they are not good for you. You can “feel” like doing something, but “know” it is wrong. You can “feel” like buying something but “know” you are short on cash, and on and on. Very often, we mock God and disobey His commands because we don’t “feel” like doing it, but “know” we should.

You “feel” abandoned by God, but “know” that He will never leave you nor forsake you. You “feel” too tired, but “know” He will give you rest. You “feel” you can’t do it, but “know” God says we can do all things in Christ Jesus. We “feel” we can’t go on, but “know” His grace is sufficient.

We all need to work harder to keep our hearts and minds full of what we “know” and not what we “feel”. The joy of the Lord is our strength. It is worth it beyond measure; in His grace, we will succeed! Endure the fire…it’s producing pure gold!

---