via Yeshua: My Refiner

via Yeshua: My Refiner

My Refiner

It’s been a long season of serious health issues for me, which in turn, has given me, glimpses of clarity, recognizing my complete dependence on Christ alone.  Yet I continue to stumble…

C.H. Spurgeon is an amazing writer who so eloquently brings words to life.  He often can take such a complex idea and use simple analogies to make valid, Godly truths.  A recent devotional caught my attention with regards to God’s people being “Diamonds in the Ruff”  and without the refining tool of our Maker, we gems, become scratched, dull and ordinary, while going through life barely existing circumstances, relationships and/or life conundrums.  God ordains these “Hard times”  for us to become refined, buffed and shined, in light of difficult circumstances.  It’s these hard times God is most clearly present, being a strong refuge in time of need.  Without the trial, I can hardly be refined.

Similarly, and an old timer in recovery often shares his truth  stating it’s not the situation that determines who one is, but how one handles it. 

It's helpful for me to chomp on such spiritual truths from time to time!

Brotherly Love

As we finish our last week in SamutPrakan my feelings are bitter sweet!
Quite sad to go, as this short chapter of my life comes to an end, but incredibly grateful for the God given opportunities presented here: sharing the gospel amongst the unreached urban poor, and also, teaching and loving on God's children.

Last week of Thai living...

Sweet Friendships made along the way...





The joys of transportation :)








Unfortunately, a plethora of false idolatry is not uncommon here in Thailand. Buddhism, Folk Buddhism, Animism, temple worship, and spirit houses for protection against other spirits.

Sa wat de ka (hello)

My team bought me beautiful orchids for my 37th :) Then I was able to take a lovely swim before my two hour massage, Thai style, given by a warm "mom & pop" shop down the street from where the Malones live. I paid a whole $18 dollars for the deluxe package! I plan on fancying this shop again prior to departure!






This week has been full of highs and lows spiritually, emotionally and physically.

Teaching English has been a great means to reach the unreached. God has opened this door wide open. Our various ministries have consisted of: prayer walking, reaching those in prostitution via teaching English and bar ministry, and teaching in slums and poor governmental national schools. These ministries have been incredibly rewarding! Seeing first hand glimpses of HIS fruit transpire in this place, even in spite of ourselves, God continues to work in and through us. What an honor it is to serve on the front lines affirming Our Lord's Sovereignty in this forsaken place.

Unfortunately, I have been violently ill again, went to hospital where I was diagnosed with tonsillitis. Quite unbelievable really! Despite my feeble, finite self, God is faithful and continues to pursue me in these dark moments of physical exhaustion. I'm learning much about my walk in faith! (Hebrews 12:1-2)

Life here...

As I ponder upon this 36 year, I'm grateful for both the blessings and life lessons God has bestowed graciously upon me. I'm a work in progress and more is always being revealed!
A few days ago I had another bought of the Thai stomach crud and it was horrible! Needless to say, God used that time of sickness to root out character defects I've chosen not to look at or deal with for quite some time. (Ephesians 3:13-21).
I'm convinced His timing is perfect in all things!
Here are pictures portraying life in Samut Prakan. Enjoy!

Teaching in Samut

It's amazing to see first hand how excited Thai children are to be amidst farangs (foreigners). Their child like response to both learning and foreigners are something we can all glean from. (Luke 18:17)
We have had the privilege of teaching in the Word of God, Noah's Ark, making boats and animals out of construction paper and pipe cleaners. Working with God's children has simply been a joy!