Getting the right perspective

We read the bible on God's grace and peace that is offered to us. We read the early chapters of Job, where four disasters happen to Job in just one day, yet he will not blame God.

I went to church by myself today, Jan felt too week. The service was led by a lady who had overcome breast cancer herself nine or so years ago, and the piano was played by a widower whos wife had died when breast cancer spread to her brain. So two people, both with the same faith, prayed for by the same church, one healed and one went to be with Jesus somewhat earlier, leaving young children without a mother. So I believe God works to his plan, and it can be a mystery to us as to who is healed and who is not.

The service focused on AIDS orphans in Uganda, and showed a film about a 13 year old girl named Rachel. She was left as an orphan at the age on 6, and was acting as head of the household bringing up three of her siblings, and three other orphans from another family. So here am I worried about managing the washing, when in Uganda a girl of 13 is managing to bring up a family of 6, albeit with the help of a local church pastor. Info on TEAR fund here http://tilz.tearfund.org/hiv

Just weeks before a friend had explained how his wife was trying to stop girls going into prostitution to earn a living in Zimbabwe. He said that he thought that for a small sum he could buy them a sewing machine, and teach them to make and sell souvenirs to tourists or clothes to Africans. For what Jan's treatment must have cost the NHS so far he could set up 20 girls in such industry.

When asked what he would do if money was no object he said bring some of his church folk from Zimbabwe to visit us here in the UK. He said they were poor materially, but rich spiritually.

I pray that I will get my problems in perspective, and catch some of the spirit of these Africans. I want to see God glorified across the world, not just for my selfish needs.

Thanks to a friend who lent me the book on prayer "Getting through to God" by Michael Baughen, bishop of Chester. He states God answers prayer for his glory, not for our selfish whim. I know that he is working for our ultimate good through this trial, and is bringing us closer to him. Michael's book is here: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Getting-through-God-Michael-Baughen/dp/0850095662