“Life Above Reproach”

What I learned…

By James Denis

During the past few years, a series of changes have occurred in my life.  Some of them were difficult, but through it all I have learned to trust Him in everything—fromthe most overwhelming to even the simplest of things.  His will for my life in EVERY matter—no matter how small—is always EXACTLY what is best for me.

Through studying His word, I have gained an increased understanding of His grace in my life, in every aspect of my life—frommy physical exercise (during which I pray and meditate) to the amazing people He places in my path.  I have experienced an outpouring of His love more times that I could ever count, both while alone with Him, and from others around me.  I have felt His gifts of love, warmth, and calmness in the face of what would have otherwise been debilitating fear.

I have experienced His gifts of joy, strength, and peace, during what would have otherwise been the loneliest of times.  I have taken to heart the truth which is:  with Him I am not alone, have never been alone, nor will ever be alone.  These and so many other moments with him, prove to me the truths contained in 2 Corinthians 7:16, “Therefore I rejoice that I have confidence in you in everything,” and Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

I have felt His amazing Holy Spirit—both by myself while praising His name and while in the middle of a joy-filled roomful of people.  All these gifts and experiences are every bit as real as the fact that I am here today, proving to me—beyonda shadow of any doubt—theabsolute truth that “I was in prison and you came to me.”  (Matthew 25:36).