Have you ever admired the beauty of a diamond? No, no, not coveted- but really appreciated the amazing splendor in these sparkling rocks? These beauties did not begin their existence as a sparkling rock just waiting to be uncovered. They have gone through a long grueling process including immense heat and pressure in their journey from carbon molecules to a rough diamond. Once formed, the diamond undergoes MORE stress- including cutting and polishing to reveal its full potential.
Over the past several years at the Women’s Ministry Heart Breakfast we have reflected on the way God comes to us and PULLS US OUT of the mud, how we are to SHARE the LIGHT of the Gospel, and how we are called to SHINE like Stars. As I considered the image of a diamond, I thought about the call God has put on our lives as Christians. A diamond is just one example that can be used to reflect every Christian life. Every one of us is born into a fallen world; a world full of pressures that conspire to destroy us. But through the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit and the life-changing force of the Gospel, Christ can use these same forces to shape us into His image- the most radiant diamond of all!! There is such hope and promise!! “For by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever- those who are being made holy” Hebrews 10:14. Our Heavenly Father already sees us as perfect AND when Christ comes again and takes us home, we will be restored, made to be just like Him without spot or blemish!! In the meantime, we are like rough diamonds being shaped by His Word and the fellowship of His body the church in the midst of life’s struggles.
Scripture is filled with promises from God. Promises are to be our assurance and hope during the hard times that we will inevitably have in this life. I am currently doing a Bible-in-a-year plan and just finished the book of Job. It is one of those books that you cannot read without facing the fact that bad things will happen- to believers as well as non-believers. Some may be consequences of our decisions while others are a testing, temptation or result of the broken world this side of the fall. As believers, the excitement and HOPE is in knowing that that is not the end of our story- hardships. No, we will be brought home, “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself…” John 14:1-3.
During these times of pressure and trials, what will you do? Will you cry why me? What have I done? Focus on the present problems and trials OR look to the future? Fix your eyes on what is to come and remind yourself of the promises of God and who He has called you to become!
I hope all Hebron women will have a desire to join us at this year’s Heart Breakfast- Saturday, February 22nd, from 9 – 11 am in the newly remodeled Barclay Building. Sign up in Fellowship Hall, online - hebrononline.org/adults/women, or by calling Angela at 412-443-7752.
Our team and Hebron staff are praying that each woman be touched and encouraged by the Holy Spirit and one another. We are to be anchored in His Truth- which we will be taught, as well as hear testimony of how God has been working in the lives of women in our church, worship together, and hear special music with/ from Jordan DeFigio, and of course- enjoy a delicious meal together. Don’t miss it!!! Reserve your spot now! There are many opportunities as well for both men and women to serve to make this morning a success. To God be the Glory!
