Robin Gudal: Losing hindrances, finding joy

Published 8:00 pm Friday, March 8, 2024

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EN(dur)ANCE by Robin Gudal

Have you heard about Wilbur the Wooly sheep? He and I are much alike.

Robin Gudal

“’The wool grew so thick it soon covered his eyes, as if he was wearing some strange disguise!’

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As Wilbur avoids getting shorn and tries to do things his own way, he ends up finding himself in some sticky situations. Then he discovers that getting his own way isn’t always best.” — Goodreads

There are times when we need to remove/lose things in our lives. We are encouraged in the Bible to flee, shed off, and leave such things behind us. I admire greatly individuals who have “lost” something and then experienced improvement, added longevity, and quality to their life. To all the “recovery warriors,” I am in awe of you!

Spiritual warfare. “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” — Peter 5:8, NIV

Our part. “But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness.” — 1 Timothy 6:11, NIV

“I trust in God, my Savior, the one who will never fail. He will never fail. He didn’t fail you then, he won’t fail you now. I sought the Lord and he heard, and he answered. That’s why I trust him.” — Elevation Worship, “Trust in God”

Take action. “Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” — 2 Timothy 2:22, NIV

As the season is changing, do you need to make some changes in your life?

Humble confession. “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.” — Acts 3:19, NIV

If you’ve not accepted Jesus into your life; it’s your day. If you’ve grown weary in your faith walk, walk forth in joy. If you’ve given up on people, situations or hope, start afresh.

Our hope. “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” — Hebrews 12:1-2, NIV

Thank you, Jesus, for your forgiveness, grace and promise of eternal life.

Robin (Beckman) Gudal is intentional in life, a wife, momma, nana, friend, a flawed and imperfect follower of Jesus.