GOD TURNS LEAD INTO GOLD
- Key Verse
- "You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sack cloth and clothed me with joy." (Psalm 30:11)
READ THE CHAPTER
Central Truth
This world is full of terrible things, but the Lord is merciful and good.
Reflections
This passage points me right back to when I first heard the gospel. The wailing part really hits home.My girlfriend at the time (now wife) and I had just broken up due to the fact that I did not have a relationship with Christ. This was not our choice, but something that was put upon us by her parents.
At the time it was heart breaking, but I now know that her parents did the right thing. Her dad and I sat down to talk about their decision over a cup of coffee. All I wanted to do was convince them why Kaley and I should be allowed to stay together, but Danny, her father, had a different plan.
As I sobbed over the cup of joe, feeling completely destroyed, Danny shared the gospel with me. I would be lying to you if I said that I accepted Christ right at that moment, but something struck me about it. I had never been told about a personal relationship with God before, so it took me by surprise. Needless to say I was at a low point, but the next day the Lord would pick me up and set me down on the right path.
Kaley and I went to church the next day and the pastor spoke about how anyone can be forgiven for their mistakes if they repent. It may sound cliche, but the Lord took control of me that day and changed me from the inside out. There have been down times since I have given my life over to the Lord, but nothing like it once was, because He has "removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy."
Discussion Questions
1. When was the last time that the Lord turned your "wailing into dancing?"2. At the time, did you realize that He was doing this?
3. Have you found it harder to be torn down since you have given your life over to the Lord?
Comments
The views expressed under “Comments” are solely
those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Hill Country Bible Church NW.
Chip Smith
February 11, 2010 06:31 AM
Hello Sebastian: Wow! Yea Danny! I am sure there are many believing parents that wish their believing son or daughter had waited to marry until the intended spouse turned their lives over to Christ too. In fact, I know so. I meet and pray with them for their child and their unsaved spouse often. Rarely, do I see where the believing spouse brings their spouse into a relationship with Christ. Usually it is the unbelieving spouse who draws the other away from their relationship with Christ. As a parent, it must be heart breaking to see that happen to their believing child. It blesses me to see parents take a stand and a daughter with the courage to wait. You are very fortunate to have a wife and in-laws with such conviction and integrity. I hope that your testimony will give others the courage to do the same. I also hope you are in JourneyMen so that you may grow into a father like your father-in-law. Have a great day and a blessed marriage, Sebastian.
Libby Barber
February 11, 2010 08:02 AM
Thanks for your devotional, Sebastian. What a miracle every conversion is! God is so good. This was a reminder to me to never give up on people, and to be sure to make that appointment and present the Gospel clearly so that there is understanding and a chance to respond. Hey! I think that's our vision! Thanks for sharing your story. Libby
Amy Feser
February 11, 2010 09:02 AM
What a beautiful testimony! Every opportunity is a divine one! I aspire to be a parent to my 6 yr old daughter and 3 yr old son like Kaley’s parents are to her, and now you! Thank you for sharing … what HOPE! :)
Linda Jean Butler
February 11, 2010 11:29 AM
Wow. I had never heard your story. That is awesome. God has certainly changed you and I have seen your passion for God and for others. After nearly 30 years of marriage, I can attest to the glory of God in the way he works through the sacrament of marriage. After 4 months, it's wonderful, but after 30 years, it's even better! May God continue to bless you and Kaley and your ministry. Praise His name.
Terry Melle
February 11, 2010 12:02 PM
Love your story. Great transparency. Re question 3: Yes.
Ann LaLanne
February 11, 2010 12:49 PM
Wow...dude....love your story. It totally gives me freedom from fear as I have two teenagers at home; my oldest is setting off to college soon. So, I am on my knees praying for her spouse...even though we may not know him yet....your story reminded me of how I could deal with the situation of dating a non believer...thanks!! Jesus Rocks and saves!!
CJ
September 5, 2010 10:09 AM
Weeping -> Joy is for sure in Christ. But, the night could few days at times.