By taking heed according to God's Word

I've been very encouraged lately by the variety of scenarios in which the Lord has involved Heather and I in the lives of other people. I think that as Christians we sometimes look for a reminder of why the Lord has us in a particular place or season in our lives, at least I do. It is always encouraging to see physical "evidence" although it is best to trust in the Lord's purposes regardless of whether or not our circumstances make sense. One thing that I've noticed is that many people are quick to compliment Heather and I and how they can see that the Lord is working powerfully in our marriage. I find this to be very encouraging but I try to be quick to give the glory to God for what He has done and continues to do in our lives. Some people give me glowing accolades about being a mature, wise husband. While I appreciate these remarks, my thoughts quickly shift to, "How can I grow as a loving leader for Heather?", "How can I balance life well?", and "How can I keep my way pure as a young man in the midst of such a twisted and perverse culture?" I know that I will always be susceptible to being blinded by pride or losing focus of where I should be spiritually; especially if I get caught up in all of the hype. The truth of the matter is that God has been good to me in so many ways and has given me a heart that desires to honor Him. Plain and simple, it all comes from Him. I struggled tremendously with rebellion as a teenager and it took some very difficult circumstances for the Lord to break my heart and show me that my heart was corrupt apart from His grace. I struggled tremendously with despair and discouragement as an undergraduate and the Lord imparted grace to me even as I struggled with bitterness and continually questioned the circumstances that He placed me in. Graduate school has been much easier (because the Lord has blessed me with Heather:) but I have still faced some challenges and roadblocks. Since trials and difficulties will inevitably be a part of life, how is a young man capable of remaining steadily focused on Christ as circumstances constantly change? Psalm 119:9 gives a perfect answer to this question: "How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word." So does Micah 6:8: "He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?" These verses are such an encouragement to me as I strive to stay focused on Christ in the midst of the circumstantial roller coaster of life. I hope that they encourage you as well. Many blessings in Christ, Josh