Devotional: When Joseph was falsely imprisoned for 17 years, it was still GOD’s sovereign restraint. When Job lost everything and went through horrendous experiences and pains, it was still GOD’s sovereign restraint. When Israel wandering through the desert for 40 years and complained just as we do today….it was GOD’s sovereign restraint. Else, without it, without HIS mercy and patience, we would have been removed. The conventional wisdom is that “if my current pains are removed today, I am fully trained and prepared for whatever lies ahead! Let’s go now, GOD!” Yet thanks be to GOD for HIS unspeakable gifts, HIS merciful corrections, and again, HIS sovereign restraint! Yes, Better to be sovereignly restrained than released ahead of schedule! Until HE releases us, the truth is that we are NOT prepared!Amen and amen!
[u][b][size=medium][color=CC0000]Sovereignly Restrained[/color][/size]
In lieu of GOD’s movements – releasing my chains
though seen is HIS evidence…pending;
still the forces of evil attack without thought
as though they may just win their uprising.
Yet what HE has taught through corrections and gifts
is that self must – HIS timing – await…
for my rescue and favor, HE holds in HIS hands!
Thus, HE needs not – such blessings – create!
Nay! Rather! ‘Tis finished! The work of the LORD!
“Planned withholding” – this wait – then explains!
Yea! Sovereignly drawn and designed by my MASTER,
I praise HIM who – this soul – restrains!
As HIS servant in your service,
By WVW Jasnoch 1/19/08