My guy is a true Southern gentleman through and through. A true man of integrity. He was raised to believe a man is as good as his word. Charlie is known for being a gentle giant. A kind, forgiving, loving man who puts the people he loves before himself. His ability to forgive and see the best in others when they are so horrible is truly amazing to watch. Amazing, because it is supernatural for us human beings. That is true Christ-likeness. Isn't that what Jesus does? He looks past the ugliness in our lives and see the potential and loves us regardless. A very wise pastor teaches that Christ-likeness is not something we should "strive" to be.....we can't do it! The Bible says we are to "be still and know that I am God". A Bible Scholar said the true Greek translation means "cease striving and know that I am God". In other words....just let Him live through us....which comes from a daily personal relationship with an Almighty God!
Much to our shock about 3 months ago Charlie's integrity was questioned by a man who does not know the meaning of the word. I am not sure why it was such a shock........we cross paths with people everyday that have the ability to do that.....people who know nothing about integrity. It has been very hard to see how deeply this hurt Charlie. A very wise godly business man who had no idea what was happening posted on Facebook a very encouraging word. Apparent in his business he was experiencing some of that integrity questioning also. He said.... "A man of integrity expects to be believed. Sometimes it takes God and time to reveal the truth." Soooo true! And sometime God lets us watch as the righteous prevail! Yesterday Charlie and I watched that happen! Beautiful sight it was!
There are so many times in life we find ourselves in situations we can do nothing about. It is in times such as these that we have no choice but to sit back and watch God at work. Trusting Him. Many days we had to remind ourselves that He promised that "the righteous will prevail". It did not FEEL like or LOOK like that was the case.
You know I have been reminded through this that situations we cannot "fix" are opportunities to watch the hand of an Almighty God at work on our behalf. He does that everyday.......sadly we get so caught up with life that we don't notice. The days that I do pay attention it is incredible to see the hand of God taking care of those things that concern me as He said He would do. And you know....He doesn't have to let us watch. That in itself is a precious gift and a beautiful reminder of how close and attentive He really is everyday!
As we celebrate this beautful holiday it will be with thankful hearts that our heavenly Father sent His son to be born in a lowly manager because of His love for us. His love that He reveals to us everyday if we pay attention. So from our family to yours we wish you a very Merry Christmas.
With a very thankful and full heart,
Cindi
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