“If our hearts are not anchored to the goodness of God when tragedy strikes, we lower our theology to match our pain.”- Christa Black Gifford
“We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making His appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God.”- 2 Corinthianas 5:20 (NIV)
Christa Black Gifford concludes Chapter 4 of Hearts Made Whole as she notes what happens when indescribable tragedy smashes into our hearts. At such times, it’s easy for us to forget that we’re children of the King. Therefore, at moments like these, Ms. Gifford points out, every Christian comes to a crossroad in their faith. Will we:
- continue to press forward toward Jesus, using Him as well as his miracles as our example of the Father’s will?
- take our broken hearts and run, showing bitterness and offense when our prayers fail to line up with God’s will?
- form new theology around our experience as a hedge against disappointment?
- run into the arms of Jesus, letting Him teach us who He is and how to develop a faith that moves mountains?
Ultimately, then, two choices present themselves. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we freely choose to believe only Jesus provides the solution to our brokenness. Or, we simply give up and throw in the towel. Furthermore, Christa cautions, you’ll never find peace as long as your heart carries offense against God for all the bad things in your life.
In conclusion, the author encourages:
“Your healing is waiting on the other side of a heart grown bitter. . . . If you’re ready to let the medicine of heaven into the heartache that’s been infecting your life, then all He needs is a crack of willingness.”
Today’s question: What keeps your heart anchored to God’s good ness? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “When we stop pressing forward in faith”
