The Joy of Captivity!

There is a way that appears to be right, 
   but in the end it leads to death.  Proverbs 14:12

For years, I pursued many goals.  Most I accomplished.  So I ravished in the joy of achievements.  I was in the right path.  Therefore my energy, time, youth and finances were funneled toward consummating these desires.  Determination, persistence, and sheer drive to make things work led to many accomplishments.  I enjoyed these triumphs, until dissatisfaction appeared.  This resulted in a lack of fulfillment and joy.  So I would try again.  The next time I would find the joy, purpose, and fulfillment that I longed for.  It never happened.  After many attempts, and years of trying, I arrived at a conclusion.  All my efforts had been wasted.  I was left empty.  I was left broken.  I was led to death.    

So, that is the reason why I was sent to captivity.  With captivity, came the removal of everything I’ve ever known.  Who I was previously was irrelevant.  Captivity was abrupt and final.  Since my Lord is so kind and generous, He gave me the honor of being part of the exiles.  With that I reaped their benefits.  The Lord labeled me a good fig; Jeremiah 24:1-3.   From now on, his eyes would always watch over me, for my good; Jeremiah 24:6a.  He would build me up and not tear me down; Jeremiah 24:6b.  He would plant me and not uproot me; Jeremiah 24:6c.  The Lord also promised me a heart to know him, Jeremiah 24:7a; and one that will be turned fully toward him; Jeremiah 24:7b.  This was the Lord’s path.  I trusted him.  From now on, my Lord was leading. 

There is such joy in being led.  Even though there are days when uncertainty reigns, the Lord provides the strength.  One endures by his grace.  And then your eyes are open and you finally see.  Your heart rejoices!  For what you have searched for all of your days, the Lord graciously given.  A purpose.  The reason for being alive.  And there they are; the works.  Those he prepared before the foundation of the world for you to do.  It is easy to give wholeheartedly now.  For one has been given much.  So you see, it was good to be left empty, for now I am filled.  It was good to be broken, for the Lord put me back together.  It was good to die, for now I live!


Copyright 11/10