Troubles and Sorrow.

Troubles and sorrow, to draw us closer to Christ. That is how i feel, every affliction that comes my way makes me just run to God ever more. Making me hate the world even more, the world and all its vanities, promises that are in fact lies, i've come more and more to find the goodness , passing pleasures of this world tasteless, flavorless. It just come to lose its power on me ever more.

I know my weakness and how prone i am to be tempted again by the world and its glitz. I keep falling, but my loving Father keeps patiently drawing me back to Him. And when i spend time with God, His gifts and beauty just weights so much more than anything the world can offer.

There are many things i have given up in the world because i know in the end though they may look great in the world they are worth little in heaven. Giving up fame and fortune when i was given the opportunity to start a label. Position and financial stability. Comfort and security in Australia. Beauty and pleasure of leisure in Italy. The world of fashion and what it has to offer me. my Passions, little enjoyments and activities.

But more and more i have been reminded that to be a Christian is to also " Count the Cost " ( luke 14:28 ) . 

Quoting J C Ryle " But it does cost something to be a real Christian, according to the standards of the Bible. There are enemies to overcome, battles to be fought, sacrifices to be made, an Egypt to be forsaken, a wilderness to be passed through, cross to be carried, race to run ."

And there is unspeakable joy, and peace that comes with choosing Christ and following Him! There is joy in suffering for His sake. How i feel sad for those who do not know Christ, those who profess to be Christian but to not seek to please Him and run after all that Christ has to offer and how much He would so love to give them heavenly things if only they would trust and obey Him! I am humbled by His love.

I have my shortcomings, but God, He is Almighty. He is good. I pray to be a vessel to be used by Him each day. How wonderful it is to be under the care of Jehovah Jireh! Thank you Jesus for everything.