My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. James 1:2-4
The further I continue in my journey of faith, I understand why I can count it all joy in my trials. It’s because the end result produces a blessing. I usually don’t feel victorious in the trial; I have to believe in faith a blessing is coming. It takes patience, less of me and my desires and more of God’s spirit to work out the “less” of me!
Last winter I was rubbed the wrong way at work with a co-worker, Buddy. My client and I had developed that bond of trust and I knew he was ready to close the sale. The house I was selling was not a set up model at our store. He had to go to our sister store in Phoenix and view it there and Buddy aggressively stole my customer. Even when the client wrote me emails that he would rather purchase it from me, Buddy would not back down. My boss was caught in the middle and being a peacemaker, offered me a partial commission. I accepted, resting in the joy of my salvation. I forgave Buddy and let the Lord fight my battle. Yesterday I learned that Buddy was fired. I am not joyful about that, but I am joyful that I am still standing. I am joyful that I’m in a good place with God and with my boss. I have my joy and my integrity. God’s spirit produced patience, not ugliness.
I’m linking to Angel at All the Mus. She is an angel that reminds us to “Count it all Joy on Wednesday!”
The further I continue in my journey of faith, I understand why I can count it all joy in my trials. It’s because the end result produces a blessing. I usually don’t feel victorious in the trial; I have to believe in faith a blessing is coming. It takes patience, less of me and my desires and more of God’s spirit to work out the “less” of me!
Last winter I was rubbed the wrong way at work with a co-worker, Buddy. My client and I had developed that bond of trust and I knew he was ready to close the sale. The house I was selling was not a set up model at our store. He had to go to our sister store in Phoenix and view it there and Buddy aggressively stole my customer. Even when the client wrote me emails that he would rather purchase it from me, Buddy would not back down. My boss was caught in the middle and being a peacemaker, offered me a partial commission. I accepted, resting in the joy of my salvation. I forgave Buddy and let the Lord fight my battle. Yesterday I learned that Buddy was fired. I am not joyful about that, but I am joyful that I am still standing. I am joyful that I’m in a good place with God and with my boss. I have my joy and my integrity. God’s spirit produced patience, not ugliness.
I’m linking to Angel at All the Mus. She is an angel that reminds us to “Count it all Joy on Wednesday!”
What a sweet lady you are!! It would have been really hard to be so nice about all that. Isn't it wonderful how faithful He is to us!!
ReplyDeleteLove and Blessings to you!!
Mary, why am I not surprised? You are a kind woman of God. I understand when you say you're not happy that Buddy got fired. But you left it up to the Lord and didn't insist on what was rightfully yours. In the end, the truth came out. But sometimes it doesn't always work that way and it seems like they get away with stuff. I always try to remember that God sees it all and we don't have to worry about getting what's due us.
ReplyDeleteLove and blessings to you,
Debbie
It's not easy sometimes to put off the anger or respond with love but He promised us He will take care of those injustices for us. It's sad that Buddy was fired.
ReplyDeleteThat's one thing I love with the Lord, how much compassion He had shown us and wanted us to have. That even if our enemies lose, we must not rejoice. But rather "be joyful" only in Him! It's Him being our All in All that truly makes our hearts joyful no matter what trial we're in. Glory to God! I'm in pain still but I give it to Him. Knowing He will heal me in His perfect time. I choose to remain joyful. Knowing I don't have anything to lose but I have so much I had gained instead to know His love and mercy. Love to you sister. Joy=smiles....
Good for you Mary! I'm glad you were able to walk in love. That isn't easy!
ReplyDeleteMary!!
ReplyDeleteHE is soooo your vindicator! I know HE is saying "Well Done my sweet daughter!!" I am not celebrating in Buddy's dismissal and know his behavior has deep rooted issues but I pray that he learns a lesson in all of this! Sooo thankful for you and your godly example!!
LOVE YOU!
I didn't know you sold real estate. I used to be a broker too. Spent all my money in that business. Blessings ~
ReplyDeleteWow, Mary ... you have lived such powerful examples of His words and deeds in our everyday lives.
ReplyDeleteBy just letting-go and letting God ... peace is possible, isn't it?
You are beyond precious, love you sis.
ReplyDeleteYou took the high road, and are now standing firm in your earthly position, and your heavenly position. You rock Mary!
ReplyDeleteMary:
ReplyDeleteI love how you handled that situation! He always works those things out in the best way...
Way to go 'buddy' :)
Your words are so true. I think God wants us to love others and let go of resentment and hurt and annoyances and just love, because he knows it gives us peace and joy when we do this, and that is good and healthy for us. He always wants the best for us!
ReplyDeleteI added your blog to my side bar under inspirational blogs!!
PTL....you chose to do what was right and take the high road and God turned it around for you!
ReplyDeleteHe is faithful!!
Luv, Hugs and Sweet Blessings!
Jackie
You allowed the patience of God to work through you as you counted, on purpose in JOY which provides strength to walk through with great patience. Thank you for sharing this beautiful story of God's faithfulness.
ReplyDelete