Testing, 1, 2, 3

1 Thessalonians 5:21 (NKJV) Test all things; hold fast what is good.

Sometimes things look good--really good. Our eyes get greedy. We see something shiny and immediately are drawn to it. There are times when a bauble is all sparkle and no substance beneath the surface. If we take time to test it, and use the good sense God gave us, we may just find a diamond, or save ourselves from fool's gold.

Years ago, when The Hubster and I were much younger, with two small daughters at home, a unique opportunity presented itself. The Hubster was offered a job with better money, prestige and benefits in Iowa. When he interviewed, the company seemed ideal. We prayed about it and made the decision to go. After putting our house up for sale and watching our children cry as they left their classrooms, we moved...to a tiny apartment, loud neighbors, double bills to pay and a job that only slightly resembled what was promised.

God taught us a lot about ourselves in Iowa. We learned to rely on Him and not on others for our security. Not everything was bad there; we had a wonderful church family there, a great school and a beautiful park to play in. Our youngest daughter made a decision for Christ there. Ultimately, The Hubster's old employer made a meaningful offer to return home, and we did.

The Bible holds a great deal of knowledge for daily living. When I need to test something, someone, or some situation, I go to the Word for comparison. Anything good must point to Christ and His teaching. Taking time to test, pray and meditate will reap great rewards.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did three disco aerobic workouts last week. There were many trips out of town and much to do last week. I'm pooped!

***

Notable Quote:

"What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead."--Nelson Mandela, from a speech for the 90th birthday of anti-apartheid activist Walter Sisulu, 2002