Posts Tagged ‘Dr. Gayle Woods’
Isa. 62:6-9 (9) “But they that have gathered it shall eat it, and praise the Lord…”
I was interested to hear a friend tell how he escaped from bankruptcy. Before this difficult time, his house and 20 acres seemed to be rather insignificant. While he was going through the time, however, these possessions seemed to be rather valuable. More valuable than this was his reputation and his Christian testimony. Because of this he decided NOT to declare bankruptcy unless it became absolutely necessary. He would trust God. His creditors agreed to adjust his payments so they were more manageable. My friend then began to diligently work at the task of paying back a very large debt.
The times were difficult. The family had little extra and no luxuries. At times they wondered how they would make their monthly payments. Even through the times of sacrifice and struggle the Lord always provided. The money that was needed always came in time. At times the supply from God was unexpected and unusual.
This experience he stated, helped strengthen his faith in God, his children’s faith in him and in God, and the community’s appreciation for his Christian life. All this was made possible through the provision of God and because of His faith in God.
Dr. Gayle Woods
Isa 62:1-5 (3) “Thou shalt also be a crown of glory in the hand of the Lord, and a royal diadem in the hand of thy God.”
Before Merlin became the advisor to King Arthur, he led a war band throughout Briton in an effort to free them from the marauding bands of barbarians. During this time he met the illegitimate son of a neighboring king. The young man was the shame of his father and wished to be free from the bondage he felt.
When he met Merlin there was a natural affinity that often occurs. He bowed before Merlin and asked that he be permitted to be Merlin’s servant. At his insistence, Merlin asked the king to grant him the young man as a gift.
The king was happy to be rid of the shame in his life. From that day Pelleas was closer to Merlin than a brother.
Later, Merlin married. When his wife was soon to have a child he allowed her to travel to her father’s castle. He and his warband would follow a short time later.
Unknown to Merlin a large army of barbarians was roving the area. When they saw her group arriving they attacked the group, abusing, torturing and killing all of them.
When Merlin came upon the body of his mutilated wife he went crazy. He led his warband in a reckless battle against the barbarians. It was a slaughter. Still crazed in his grief he disappeared. He was not seen for many years.
Pelleas did not cease to search for him. Day after day he searched. He crisscrossed the country looking for his friend. Finally, he was rewarded for his diligence when he found Merlin, just healed by God but still wearing the rags of his hermitage.
This kind of loyalty and devotion illustrates what God desires of His people. We are to be totally given to Him. His our life, our breath, our being.
Dr. Gayle Woods
