Page 342 - The Ministry of Health and Healing (2004)

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The Ministry of Health and Healing
of God stand by their side, listening to their words and noting the
manner in which their work is done, to see if larger responsibilities
may be entrusted to them.
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God does not estimate people by their wealth, their education,
or their position. He estimates them by their purity of motive and
beauty of character. He looks to see how much of His Spirit they
possess and how much of His likeness their life reveals. To be great
in God’s kingdom is to be as a little child in humility, in simplicity
of faith, and in purity of love.
“‘You know,’” Christ said, “‘that the rulers of the Gentiles lord
it over them, and those who are great exercise authority over them.
Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become
great among you, let him be your servant.’”
Matthew 20:25, 26
.
Of all the gifts that heaven can bestow upon human beings,
fellowship with Christ in His sufferings is the most weighty trust
and the highest honor. Not Enoch, who was translated to heaven,
not Elijah, who ascended in a chariot of fire, was greater or more
honored than John the Baptist, who perished alone in a dungeon.
“To you it has been granted on behalf of Christ, not only to believe
in Him, but also to suffer for His sake.”
Philippians 1:29
.
Plans for the Future
Many are unable to make definite plans for the future. Their life
is unsettled. They cannot see exactly how matters will develop, and
this often fills them with anxiety and unrest. Let us remember that
the life of God’s children in this world is a pilgrim life. We have not
wisdom to plan our own lives. It is not for us to shape our future.
“By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to the place
which he would receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not
knowing where he was going.”
Hebrews 11:8
.
Christ in His life on earth made no plans for Himself. He ac-
cepted God’s plans for Him, and day by day the Father unfolded His
plans. So should we depend upon God, that our lives may be the
simple outworking of His will. As we commit our ways to Him, He
will direct our steps.
Too many, in planning for a brilliant future, make an utter failure.
Let God plan for you. As a little child, trust to the guidance of Him