In my morning quiet time the Holy Spirit brought up a verse that piqued my attention. I heard ‘no confidence in the flesh’. I don’t remember reading or hearing these words but when I googled it, it came up in Philippians 3:3 (NKJV):
“For we are the circumcision, who worship God in the Spirit, rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh,”

I didn’t know right away what the Holy Spirit wanted to impart to me but I read the verses that surrounds this specific verse to understand the context. Paul was referring to having no reliance on his pedigree of religious accomplishments and upbringing to give himself a right standing before God. It is only through faith in Jesus Christ alone that he has salvation and under God’s grace. I agree with Paul. Then I asked for wisdom to understand what it meant for me personally. I’ve been reflecting on this verse for past few days now. Like a personal journal my thoughts may ramble and jump, going from here to there.

I’ve learned at a young age that I couldn’t rely on my dad for much other than the basic needs (food, shelter, etc.). It took me longer to see this but I also learned that my mom only had limited love to give, and also the enemy can use her greatly to direct my paths away from God’s will. People in general have disappointed and hurt me. It didn’t matter what religion, race or socio-economic backgrounds they came from. All these experiences taught me as a young person to have ‘no confidence in the flesh.’ I’ve coped by setting the bar very low, and expecting little from my human comrades. 

I don’t know if this coping mechanism is God-approved but it has helped me to not become severely wounded especially when people I’ve opened up to would turn cool towards me. Yes, it still hurts badly but I’ve noticed I’m able to move past it much more quickly than others can. Plus I don’t burn bridges either. So perhaps this coping mechanism I’ve learned isn’t so bad. Only Jesus can show me the truth regarding this in his time. I’ll keep my heart and mind open to receive from Him. 

Is there anyone or anything in this world that we can have confidence in? I used to believe the church should be able to give me confidence and shelter from the world. And yes, I have experienced much good within the church but I’ve also experienced much disappointment and hurt as well. As I reflect on how I overcame the hurt so quickly I realized that it is from my coping mechanism. I barely missed a beat in serving my church while I was bleeding inside from a deep wound. Sometimes as soldiers for Jesus Christ, we fight against the works of evil one even when we are severely wounded. It is during these battling seasons where I learned that I can have strong confidence in my Lord Jesus Christ. Absolutely nothing nor anyone is powerful enough to separate me from the comfort and love of Jesus Christ. Praise God! 

If your relationship with someone have cooled off and you are not sure why or how to proceed forward; pray and ask the Lord to give you wisdom and to guide you. And wait patiently for him. Don’t fret or worry or get anxious. Perhaps he’ll lead you to reconciliation; or perhaps he’ll lead you to acceptance of having a more distant relationship. From my experiences he always guides me with wisdom and understanding as I wait on him. His peace always follows the guidance as well. 

The other day as I was continuing my reading in the book of Proverbs, I ran across this verse. 
Proverbs 18:19 (NLT)
An offended friend is harder to win back than a fortified city.

As you can see it’ll take tremendous effort to win back an offended friend. Of course continue to be friendly but don’t be grieved of your lost intimacy. Sometimes God doesn’t want you to spend your time, effort and energy to win over an offended friend. He rather you use the resources he gave you for other valuable work such as serving the church, rebuilding your relationship with your family members, loving your children and husband, putting your best efforts at work or school, even enjoying your blessings in the Lord. 

Here’s another good advice for me from Proverbs 18:1
Unfriendly people care only about themselves

I used to give all kinds of excuses for my unfriendly friends and overlook their many flaws. Many times I’ll be the last one standing while everyone else have moved on from them. Well, I think I’ll move on a bit faster next time. Again, be cordial and friendly. Don’t burn bridges. Don’t gossip about it too or you’ll certainly burn the bridge. You never know when God will need you to reach out to them for his divine purpose. 

I’ve read the book of Proverbs numerous times. Each time I re-read this book I gleam greater knowledge and wisdom. I highly recommend you to read the book of Proverbs again and again. Thank you for reading my personal journal. I pray that my thoughts and sharing help you live in greater freedom and wisdom. My dear readers, I’m praying for you. Please pray for me too. Thank you! Xoxo.