Frayed

frayed
frād/
adjective

• (of a fabric, rope, or cord) unraveled or worn at the edge.                                                         "the frayed collar of her old coat"
• (of a person's nerves or temper) showing the effects of strain.                                                   "an effort to soothe frayed nerves"

I'll admit this describes me today. Frayed. I am worn today as well. I definitely believe there is something in the atmosphere and in many ways I know it is spiritual warfare. Most of my life has been spent in a pretty little Christian bubble ... a Southern Baptist bubble. I hardly ever knew non-believers simply because I went to a private Christian school where almost everyone was going to claim to be a believer. Having graduated my eyes have been greatly opened to how wrong that assumption was. I then went on to a Christian college after a few years at a local community college. My time at Johnson broadened my viewpoint as the school was founded out of a different denomination but it still wasn't anything earth shattering. Now, I am 30 years old and while I still am a member of a Southern Baptist Church I am finding that I have different convictions on issues than many. I have also recently been introduced to viewpoints from different denominations. It has been a joy to find so much in common with those who also profess Christ. And while I appreciate the differences it makes me that much more grateful for the convictions that the Lord has given me. But I confess some it has shook me to my core. Am I wrong for what I believe on certain issues? One friend said that I might still be single because I am not more open minded on some things and that I will be limited in my options. If that's the case then so be it. If Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever (Hebrews 13:8) then His Word, that He inspired all those years ago, still applies to the many issues we are facing today (cultural issues aside i.e. women wearing jewelry, animal sacrifices, etc) and I choose to stand upon His Word.

Today, Psalm 119:105-112 speaks to my heart. I am so thankful for the Word of the God and His unchanging Truth.

“Your word is a lamp to guide my feet
and a light for my path.
  I’ve promised it once, and I’ll promise it again:
 I will obey your righteous regulations.
  I have suffered much, O Lord;
restore my life again as you promised.
  Lord, accept my offering of praise,
and teach me your regulations.
  My life constantly hangs in the balance,
but I will not stop obeying your instructions.
  The wicked have set their traps for me,
but I will not turn from your commandments.
  Your laws are my treasure;
they are my heart’s delight.
  I am determined to keep your decrees
to the very end.” Psalm 119:105-112

Hold fast to His presence and His peace today.

I love you!!

Blessings ...

- Melody Faith