BEAUTY FOR ASHES

When we unreservedly give our will and life over to the care of God, our lives are positively changed.  God raises us up to new heights that we never thought possible.  As we spend time with Jesus, the Prince of Peace, we acquire qualities that make us more like Him.

He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap; he seats them with princes, with the princes of his people.  He settles the childless woman in her home as a happy mother of children.  Praise the Lord.  (Psalm 113:7-9 NIV)

brought us to a low, needy place where our lives were totally unmanageable.  We were existing in what we could only describe as “an ash heap” and were like the dust that could be blown away at any time.  But God, who is rich in mercy, lifted us out of that place and set us among those who permanently live in the care of our Heavenly Father who is always present with each one of us.  We have been given beauty in place of ashes and are now living in the inheritance of the goodness of God instead of living in the pit of despair.

It’s a wonder God didn’t lose his temper and do away with the whole lot of us. Instead, immense in mercy and with an incredible love, he embraced us. He took our sin-dead lives and made us alive in Christ. He did all this on his own, with no help from us! Then he picked us up and set us down in highest heaven in company with Jesus, our Messiah. (Ephesians 2:3-5 MSG)

As we continue to trust God’s Word and follow His chosen path for our lives, we will not only experience great blessing but will be able to bless others as well. 

Our former life may have been unproductive but now we can bloom in the environment of God’s love and protective care. 

Prayer:  Loving God, Thank You for bringing me out of the ash heap and setting my feet on solid ground.  I ask that You give me the strength to follow Your principles in all my affairs. I am forever thankful and praise You for Your unfailing love and care for me.  Amen