I know many friends that keep journals, and then are able to look back and see how God has answered their prayers over the years. I am not that sophisticated, but while riding the other day, God impressed me to remember how He has taken me through the past 32 months, and rejoice. 32 months of unemployment, no income, no insurance benefits, and after losing 40% of my 401k in September, 2008. He has shown me the things of value, and how to depend on Him for everything, the following are just a few. I am thankful that He called me into ministry full time the same morning I lost my job. I know that when He closes one door He opens another, I didn't realize the doors He was about to open. Good thing, because I might not have gone through-but God, knew and still does, as He opens more doors to me daily.
I never would have the devotion you are reading if not for Laiken. She touched my heart so before she died, and she encouraged by her testimony to share it with others, who encouraged me to write, even wrote a book. I am shocked how God can fill my heart as I write to Him each day, and how through forwards and other sharing, this is read by people on six continents! And in prisons-10 currently, who use them for encouragement, both personal and in sharing the gospel with others. From changed lives on death row, to the guards who read them, people get to hear the gospel. And that God would choose me, and this way to do it-still blows my mind!
God has been faithful to His promise in Psalm 37, and we have never gone hungry, and we have never had to beg. When we got into ministry, well meaning Christians told me to send out support letters, which I didn't and won't. His words to me were simple, "if you ask for it, it is not a gift." And He loves to give gifts, good ones. And we have been blessed by friends, family, and those who don't even know us. The most touching from my friend on death row-$15 for my ministry. The story of the woman with two mites to give, coming alive. Don't ever tell me the scripture returns void! I can give a list of names to prove it doesn't.
While sitting on my porch in May, 2008, wanting to be at work, and willing and able-I have a great work ethic, and was successful at my job, the Lord promised me manna in my refrigerator, in my garage, and for my mortgage. I have never been late on a mortgage payment, this year alone I have ridden over 20 different motorcycles for Triumph-at no cost. How many of you would love to be given the keys to a brand new bike, and told to return in 1500 miles, for another? Such has God blessed me. And our refrigerator is always full, and we are able to feed and minister to others. Truly God honors His word.
He was with me when I got hit twice last year, and keeps me in prayer for the second woman who hit me-Beverly has terminal cancer. I have lived to see both my sons rededicate their lives to Jesus, and get excited as I watch their growth. For over 32 years He has allowed me to be married to my best friend, and we get to minister together-it just doesn't get any better. And through the heartache of so-called friends, who turned against me when I stood for the truth, instead of their laws, I have learned about betrayal, and have seen Jesus in a whole new light. He truly sticks closer than a friend.
Finally I have seen grace and mercy first hand. Mercy, whenever I screw up, sad you have to sin to get it, and grace-better than anything else you can offer. I can walk through that valley with death's shadow's hanging over me, and fear no evil. Truly He is with me.
If I can ever do anything for you, please call. But be patient, I may not be home. In the past three years I have ridden over 100,000 miles, in 46 states. Another dream come true.
So maybe you can understand why I don't keep a journal, it would keep me from doing other things. But I never forget the one who has blessed me, and I hope you let Him bless you, too. For God has written His words on my heart, and I am never far from them.
And to think, it all started with losing my job...and trusting God in the vision He gave me. If He hasn't given you one lately, ask Him. And be prepared for the ride of your life! Journey asked "I want to know what love is.." It is a person called Jesus Christ. Stick with Jesus, and love the one you're with-forever!
love with compassion,
Mike
matthew25biker.blogspot.com
