Huge Blessings

I had the privilege this weekend of attending the graduation of some amazing women from The Shalom Center, a Christian facility for women facing overwhelming drug, alcohol and life issues. Rhonda, a woman who got saved at Capstone a few years ago, invited me to be her guest at her graduation. It was an incredibly encouraging evening in so many ways.

The women - ranging in ages from 21 to 50-something - told stories of how their lives had spiraled out of control due to sin and bad choices. Most had faced years of alcohol and drug abuse and prostitution. Most had lost their families and everything they owned. Each had hit rock-bottom in her own way.

But in spite of years of pain and loss, each woman finally reached out for help. Their stories of God's grace and mercy were so great. Each of them talked of the redemption and forgiveness they had found in Jesus. They talked of surviving in spite of overwhelming odds. And Rhonda gave a great tribute to her daughter for standing by her through 26 years of addiction. Wow.

One of the young ladies said something that really spoke to me. She said,
"When the devil breaks you, he leaves you broken.
When God breaks you, He puts you back together."

Isn't that incredibly true? Sin destroys and leaves its victims' lives shattered. The brokenness that God brings actually works for good in our lives and results in us being more like Him.

God spoke to my heart in many ways Saturday night. He reminded me for the millionth time that He is constantly at work, even in the most difficult of situations. He reminded me that His arms of grace are long enough to reach every sinner. He reminded me of His work in Rhonda's life through Capstone Church and the incredible privilege I had to plant that church and be involved in so many people's lives. And, He reminded me that even though I am no longer involved in leading that church, the seeds of faith that He allowed me to sow into people's lives continue to grow.

I am humbled by His grace in my life. His mercies are truly new every morning. And, I am humbled that I would get to be involved in His work in the lives of people like Rhonda. What a huge blessing!