trbccoffeebreak

“Out of the midst of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity.” 2 Corinthians 8:2 (NIV)

Desperation always takes us to a deeper place. For some it turns their hearts away from the only One who can transform their emptiness.  Cheap imitations fill us with temporary hope that washes away in the rain.  Led down unknown paths, we easily find ourselves deeper down rather than rising up.  Bound and chained by our own failed solutions, desperation’s cry for deliverance fades in the distance.   So how does severe trial and extreme poverty well up into rich generosity – a reaching out when the inner soul is vulnerable, exposed and broken?  Those who seek God allow desperation to draw their hearts closer to His – the One who overflows emptiness with joy.    Leaping over puddles of discontent and raw emotion, desperation finds its home nestled under the shadow of God’s wings.  Protected.  Covered.  Nourished. Under the umbrella of God’s love, desperation births generosity – the moving of one’s focus from self and lack to glimpse the world  through His eyes. That’s where we find the Macedonian church.  Faced with severe trials, persecution and poverty,  their spirits soared up and out.  The secret ingredient – an unwavering trust in the One who conquered death with resurrecting hope.  Remove the essence of hope and you lose the fragrance of joy.  The sweet aroma of one being lifted up in the midst of desperation, clinging to God’s promises and  nestled in His arms produces  a generous offering that amazes our King.

“Father, take us to a deeper place – a closer walk.   Lift our spirits as we dance around your throne praising Your name – Your grace is enough.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Coffee Break