Then the angel showed me Sharon standing before the angel of the LORD.
Lord, here I am – standing before You alone – with nothing to show for myself.
The Accuser, Satan, was there at the angel’s right hand, making accusations against Sharon.
Lord, how the enemy hates me! He says the most awful things against me. But, Lord, here’s the truth. His accusations are true. I am unrighteous.
And the LORD said to Satan, "I, the LORD, reject your accusations, Satan. Yes, the LORD, who has chosen Sharon, rebukes you."
Really, Lord?! YOU stand in my defense?
"This woman is like a burning stick that has been snatched from the fire."
Oh yes, Lord. I’m a smoky mess. Singed with sin, sooty with ashy living. It is only in Your mercy that I am not consumed.
Sharon’s clothing was filthy as she stood there before the angel.
I hang my head in shame.
So the angel said to the others standing there, "Take off her filthy clothes."
What?? I look up tentatively…
And turning to Sharon he said, "See, I have taken away your sins, and now I am giving you these fine new clothes."
Oh, Lord!! I am so undeserving of Your grace! How I thank You for the gift of salvation! I am a new creation, indeed!
(Scripture taken from Zechariah 3)
"Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him, throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life…Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God – truly righteous and holy." (Ephesians 4:21-23)
I need to remember Ephesians 4:21-23, especially put on your new nature, created to be like God - truly righteous and holy.
ReplyDeleteI think we need to remember who we are in his eyes and how loved we are by him and stop believing the lies of the enemy and the lies of this world; timely words today Sharon!
(praying for you about your next "engagement")
betty
Sharon, as usual I enjoyed your Wednesday scripture paraphrase. This is the first time that it has ever made me giggle, though.
ReplyDeleteYour "Sharon Side" came out with the "I'm a smokey mess".
So from one stick of smoke to the other: I'm so glad we're both covered in the righteousness and aroma of Jesus Christ.
Keep on writing...
When we see ourselves as He sees us we will live
ReplyDeleteand love as He would have us to. We are created
to be like Him.
Enjoyed this, Sharon.
God created us in His image. Praise almighty God.
ReplyDeleteHi Sharon -
ReplyDeleteThat Zechariah passage is such a jewel, as is all of GOD'S Word. But we all have our favorites - that is one of mine.
Thank you, Sharon, for reminding us how our Lord handles our business when we handle His...
Bunches of love to you my warrior sister!!!
Betty - Thanks. Yup, I'm glad for my new clothes of righteousness - the new nature is such a gift from the Lord. The old sin clothes were a little restricting! (Thanks for your prayers - will send an email in the next couple days and break it all down for you - it went well!)
ReplyDeleteDebbie - Did you like that?! I liked your phrase - covered in the aroma of Jesus. Really nice. Reminded me of all the times in the Old Testament when sacrifices were described as a pleasing aroma to the Lord. Yes, I can be a smoky stick - as long as I'm a stick for Him! (Will email you soon and let you know how today went - it was good.)
Sandy - That was a great point. In order to be like Him, we have to see ourselves through His eyes. Yes! That's the only way - to see ourselves as saved sinners (to keep us humble), and as children of the King (to keep us strong!)
JT - Isn't that just one of the most awesome mysteries of God?? That He created US to be like HIM! What an amazing thing. Praise His name indeed!
Sandra - The words of the minor prophets are simply wonderful, aren't they? How fun that I "found" one of your favorites!! Yes, the Lord takes care of His own (I'm SO glad for that!) Tons of love right back at you!!
GOD BLESS!