About the time that the uncomfortable sifting began, God spoke to my heart about a task he had for me. I knew that on my own I didn't have the strength to complete this task. I was mentally, emotionally and physically worn out. The past eight years had taken a toll, but the past few days had done me in. And then I was called. He called me to a place where the sifting would not stop, but His protection would remain constant. He opened my eyes to see that places, people and resources that were being removed from my life were for MY good and I was to let them go.
This verse came to my mind often:
"I am the vine and you are the branches. If you remain in me, and I in you, you will produce much fruit. Apart from me, you can do nothing." John 15:1-4.
He continually spoke to my heart about pruning people, places and things in my life that were not fruitful or good for me.
During this process of pruning and sifting I began to feel a freedom unlike I had known before. There were times of grief and sadness. There were days when I thought the journey was too hard.
I am better for following the Sifter.
I took on the task with Him, through Him, and only by His grace, and it was good. Of course, it was so very good. The task brought new places, new people and some new freedoms into my life that filled in where the others had been removed.
His plans are better than my plans. He is so good to me.
