When I first received the call, I knew I would have to go. My dear, precious son on the line said, “Mom, I need you.” With no hesitation, I hung up knowing that I would be moving there. Love commanded that I go. When God commanded 5 1/2 years ago that I move to Columbia, MO, I said yes. Then, I waited for all the doors to open. Well, that time; God awoke my heart to know that I was to take a leap of faith with no nets to catch me. I am so glad I did. My life is filled with wonderful things. I love my job, my patients, the doctors I work with, my time alone with God and my Bible each morning, my son, grandchildren, school and all of you.
Wow! I could go on forever saying how wonderful my life is, filled with joy and peace; because, I obeyed.
Perhaps, for that reason; when the gravity of the move at my age set in-a moment of panic hit. I looked at all I had and a piece of my heart wanted to cling to all that is familiar. God, suddenly revealed the truth that at the center of my heart, I had not been perfected yet in love. What if Christ had hesitated or said, “Hold on, I don’t know that I want to do this. Leave my perfect place at God’s side, surrounded by perfect joy and peace, to go where He would be mocked, hated, and crucified.
A TIME UNKNOWN
This time, instead of me hesitating; at least not now. Love did win, as God began to transform my heart and drain the selfish chaff. He reminded me that obedience brought all that I have now and He is in Sovereign control of my future as well. Obedience does lead to His perfect plan for my life. However, this time; He has asked me to wait for His perfect timing and not to run ahead. Once the decision is made, it is hard to wait patiently; but, I shall rest in His Grace to show me when. So, keep me in your prayers as well.
Because of all this: I wrote this poem today. Never forget, God is constantly at work in your heart and mine to transform us into the image of Christ. He will perfect us in love, as we listen to His commands and follow Him.
PERFECT IN LOVE
by Effie Darlene Barba
Perfect in love, oh how can that be
When bits of my heart think only of me
I bid you now Lord, to set my heart free
From selfish desires, only then I can see
The cost of your love for my liberty
To an old rugged cross, you went willingly
Leaving your throne, your comfort and glee
You chose the pain with humility
You counted it joy to die on that tree
My redemption to buy, that was your decree
To offer forgiveness, that was your plea
Though I was the one, hands and heart guilty
You left everything with no thought to flee
You ran to my side providing for me
A chance to see You in all Your Glory
Wrapped in Your love eternally
So, now that I hear your voice bid me go
To places unknown, Your Glory to show
To hearts shattered, broken whose lights lost their glow
The pains and the sorrows of life made them low
My Precious Lord, how could I say no
Your perfect love commands I bestow
Upon them Your Love, as I’ve come to know
You go now beside me, You are my guide
In Your Perfect Love my heart will abide
Your perfect love casting out fear
Replacing it with Your Joy and Your cheer
DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR?
If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior: I urge you to go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. Because there is nothing more important than this, I urge you to seek Him today.
OR ARE YOU IN OF NEED PRAYER?
If you have a prayer request email me by clicking here or comment here
JUST RELEASED
You can find this and all my books on Amazon.com, search Effie Darlene Barba or click this link to be taken there
Recently released Books Available
ABIDING, STEADFAST JOY
A labor of love, this book provides you with 3 foundations of truth from the scripture which once known will provide you with abiding, steadfast joy. Undaunted by the storms of life; your joy will overflow.
WHEN INJUSTICE AND VIOLENCE REIGN:
Through a study of Nahum, Habukkuk, and Zephaniah; I brought their message into our modern times. Answering the questions of “Why, God?”
Providing a foundation of faith and hope; even, as we see so much evil in the world and in our nation. With so much sorrow and despair, this book I wrote to guide you into discovering God’s Perfect Plan of love; amid this chaotic world filled with life’s storms.
You may click on the picture for more information on either of these books.
OTHER RESOURCES AVAILABLE
If you want to know more about other books I have written: You can read more about each one at: Book Resources.
Or for inspirational photos or home decor click here.
©Effie Darlene Barba, 2017
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
Footnotes and CREDITS
Photo by Joanna Kosinska on Unsplash