STILLNESS VERSES FIERCENESS

There is the quiet from contemplation where the mind is drinking from the well of deep profound thought. However, there is the quiet that is the moment of seething where the person is like a volcano about to explode.

But is that temper truly the kind of fierceness that is productive? I do wonder at times. True it does intimidate, yet does it actually end up in anything profitable?

That would depend upon whom you ask. I know that what is a yardstick is in part the results in the long run. Forceful people do often through such fierceness succeed in forcing others to do as they wish.

Only problem is that it has a season if not tempered with some sense of stillness or control. To be strong and courageous are good attribute, but if it means the person is abusive and selfish in the process the long range fruit may be tainted.

Speaking for myself, I know that I have never been regarded as particular aggressive or courageous. My strength doesn't come from bullying, but from stillness. For me I only succeed when God is my defender.

Currently, my wife and I are struggling to deal with this one person who is sadly very religious and at the same time very evil. A classic example of the kind of greed and hypocrisy that truly is what draws criticism to the faith.

Worst of all is this person's need to lie about this level of sinfulness that exists in that person's life. And predictably this person has managed to do everything imaginable to lie and renege on promises.

It has taken all my strength to keep and maintain any degree of stillness while it is necessary for us to deal with this person. Later, as I have prayed and been lead by the Lord, we shall pursue our options in terms of how to deal with this person's actions, which have been in part flatly illegal.

The main comfort is saving that anger till it can be vented in a positive and healthy way as a form of fierceness that God will bless for being his way. There are times when it is hard to keep that in focus when more problems come up, but I do my best.

Perhaps the sun shall shine upon a day that will not bury us in the fog of despair. But till that time I intended to do what I can to listen to the Lord and be obedient.

Which means remembering the times when I have to remember his word that says "be still and listen to the Lord." In those moments I can rejoice for he truly is often able to manifest his power in ways that are often so amazing.

And for the precious time when I shall feel a special time to rejoice when God's hand will deal with the evil in a special and just way. It is a pray I feel as much as express.