trust

Bishop Leslie Newbigin, in his South India Diary, tells of the union of churches which took place in South India in 1947. It was the culmination of nearly fifty years of prayer and work on the part of Indians and missionaries.

At the second synod a memorable sentence was spoken:
“The demand to know where we are going is one which no Christian has a right to make.”

The bishop writes, “In a very real sense we do not know where we are going, but we are trying to meet day by day the plain requirements of God’s will. This means a constant effort to bring every part of church life and practice to the test of conformity with the Gospel.”

It is not for the flock of sheep to know the pasture the Shepherd has in mind. It is for them simply to follow Him. If they knew that His plans included a valley of deep shadow, they would panic.

Keeping close to the One they have learned to trust is all that is necessary. He will faithfully provide rest, refreshment, correction, and protection as the needs arise. His accompanying presence is guaranteed, all the way—even through the darkest shadows—to the house of the Lord

— Elisabeth Elliot

*everyone should read "Passion and Purity" by Elisabeth Elliot.

AS SEEN on PART OF THE VINE.