Only Fear God

This is something I am learning everyday. Thank the Lord he is constantly working this in me. But I recognize the areas I need to grow. I still worry about what people think about me and want to impress people. Silly, silly, Emily. What's it for? There is no gain! You know it is a burdensome task!

But there is actually freedom in fearing only God! There will be no disappointments like there would be in futile efforts of pleasing people. I believe there will be peace and joy in only fearing God. Again, perspective changes everything. When I fully and truly only fear God, oh how AWESOME that will be! I don't want it to be far in the distance. Humble me, Lord, so I can fear you now.

Checking in...

Hello reader! I have trouble writing while I listen to music. But my pandora play list is really wonderful right now, and I'm willing to let my writing take this shot so I can continue listening. The playlist is "The Vitamin Sting Quartet." Instrumental music adapted from great artists. Very soothing!

And now! 10 updates:

1. My nephew, baby Caleb, is a beautiful child! Now almost 4 weeks old. =)

2. I am excited to start a Bible study in my dorm room for any interested residents and staff members. Please pray God would allow for great depth!

3. I continue to realize how foolish my mind is compared to God's infinite knowledge of truth and beauty.

4. I love my boyfriend Steven so very very very much. I'm extremely thankful for his friendship and love.

5. I bought a carmel latte last night with a check instead of cash.

6. An info-mercial inspired me to test the "bump-it" hair product. My resident had one in her room. I looked ridiculous. I loved it so much. tee hee hee.

7. Astronomy class is blowing my mind. The solar system is so intricate and vast! There is always something to be amazed by even on this earth. Imagine how much more so as we draw closer to the Lord and into Heaven!

8. I am extremely blessed with a fellow believer as the RA in the neighboring dorm. Her name is Melody and she is a gift from the Lord =)

9. School is busy, but God provides.

10. I still hope to go to Japan this summer, with Steven too, if the Lord wants us to go. =)

1 Peter 1:8-9

"Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls."

Lord, be our pursuit.

"For the sun rises with its scorching heat and withers the grass; its flower falls, and its beauty perishes. So also will the rich man fade away in the midst of his pursuits."

James 1:11

"As for man, his days are like grass; he flourishes like a flower of the field; for the wind passes over it, and it is gone, and its place knows it no more.... but the steadfast love of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear him."

Psalm 103:15-17

These verses came alive this week as I found out a close high school friend passed away unexpectedly in a car accident. My boyfriend called and told me the news. Her name could have been replaced with anyone's. It could have been mine and it could have been yours. So what are we living for? Is it all worth it? What will last? If we are living for Jesus Christ and loving him, everything we do to serve Him and love Him will indeed last. What a joy!

This is such a tangible example that the Lord does indeed and give and take away. But because of His great love, wisdom, mercy, compassion, justice, humility, righteousness, and perfection, His name is always to be praised. There is always comfort and joy in the Lord.

Many more thoughts are coming. Prayers for her friends and family are continuing. See you next time.

-Emily