A Different Kind of Peace

It has been an interesting couple of weeks. I have fluctuated a lot through discouragement and joy and confusion. Each day has its ups and downs, but most of them have been so busy with job searching and unpacking and rearranging rooms.

Today thus far has been a little discouraging so far.  I did a follow up on one of my job applications only to find that they don't have any record of receiving it at all. I know that I mailed it weeks ago with more than adequate postage. I'm now pretty concerned that the other resumes and applications that were sent in that same bunch never made it to their respective destinations.

All of these ups and downs have been exhausting. Last night after bible study though, I sat down to read Forgotten God by Francis Chan while I ate dinner. As he was writing about the noise in our life that distracts us from the Spirit's voice, he said something along the lines of - "For some of you, this book is just noise to fill your life and is distracting you from what the Holy Spirit has to say. Put this book down for a few minutes and read John 14 & 16."

Dang, Gina. I got called out. To be honest, I was only reading the book because I was home alone and needed some distraction while I ate.  These past few weeks, in the empty spaces between job apps and Pioneers work, I have felt the conviction to spent time with the Lord just communing with Him, but I have lacked the will to do so. I fill that time with other things, even while I long to do otherwise.

Instead of reading the passages, I got out my copy of the Bible Experience (it's pretty much the bomb diggity) and listened to those chapters. It was good to change things up and to audibly hear the words of Jesus spoken to me as He said:
But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. --- John 14:26-27
Also encouraging was His prayer for me (and you) in John 17.  I was blown away by the idea that Jesus longs for us to be with Him. I know that we are His bride and betrothed, but I don't always consider His love and desire for me and His church.
Father, I want these whom you have given me to be with me where I am. Then they can see all the glory you gave me because you loved me even before the world began! ... I have revealed you to them, and I will continue to do so. Then your love for me will be in them, and I will be in them. --- John 17:24&26
I am so incredibly thankful that I am held in the arms of Jesus, who loves me and longs for me to know Him. There's no other peace and comfort like that which comes from abiding in the Spirit and resting the wonderful truth of God's word.

On My Mind: I had a profound thought this morning. I just wish I could remember what it was.

Movie Recommendation: The Fall. INCREDIBLE. It's no Inception, but the artistry in the setting, costume design, cinematography, and acting is phenomenal. The child actress in it blows me away every time. The director captured her imagination and quirky mannerisms so perfectly, and her emotional reactions are some of the most genuine and honest performances I have ever seen. Plus, the movie has Lee Pace starring in it. What other excuse do you need?

Interesting Read: I'm reading Managing the Non-Profit Organization: Principles and Practices by Peter F. Drucker, who, according to the "about the author" section on Amazon, is the most influential management thinker EVER. That's intense, and it makes me feel rather proud of my random-off-the-shelf selection from Half Price.
Drucker has a lot of excellent things to say about leadership and the selflessness that it requires.  Many of its principles are reminiscent of Biblical teachings on leadership.  So far, I highly recommend it. 

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