Newness of Life With Surprises.

  Surprise, surprise, surprise. Ever been in on a surprise party for someone or been the recipient of one?  Or have you ever been startled or astonished by a surprise visit or gift?
  I was minding my own business on a walk a few days ago, headphones delivering some tunes as I scooted down the sidewalk, when out of the corner of my eye a dog appeared a foot away from me, followed by its owner.  The surprise came simply because I did not hear their approach, and it caught me off guard.
  I think it happens in our lives too, that we see some surprises and learn to be "un-surprised" as we walk in newness of life.

  "Dear friends, don't be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you." - 1 Peter 4:12

  Sometimes it seems easy to start to wonder why tough times show up, but we can be comforted by God's Word to know that these difficult days or circumstances can come, but God is sovereign, wise, and good.  We cannot handle it all. Oh, but He can.
 
  If we really are living a life that is transformed by our Savior, a watching world will notice.

  "Of course, your former friends are surprised when you no longer plunge into the flood of wild and destructive things they do.  So they slander you." - 1 Peter 4:4

  No longer being accustomed to the world's ways of doing things, a new worldview develops and we can shine like a noonday sun shower, reflecting God's goodness and grace.  And our changed lives will spark all sorts of reactions from folks (even hatred - see 1 John 3:13), but will definitely give excellent opportunities to share the truth of the gospel.
  This changed life is also nurtured by our spending quality time with God in reading and studying His Word and worship and setting our mind on His glorious return.

  "But you aren't in the dark about these things, dear brothers and sisters, and you won't be surprised when the day of the LORD comes like a thief." - 1 Thessalonians 5:4

  "You are an instrument through whom God displays His holiness in the world. If His name is to be hallowed on earth as it is in heaven, it must first be hallowed in your life. That occurs when you believe in Him, understand who He really is, maintain an awareness of His presence, and obey His Word. That high calling sets you apart from every unbeliever. Live today in light of that glorious calling."- John MacArthur
  Take heart in knowing that though surprises may come and scare or threaten us, God's promises to be with us as His very own children will help us have strength for our journey.

A prayer:
  Dear LORD, I stand amazed at Your power and majesty and long to know You more. Please draw me close and then let me reflect Your light in this life.  In Jesus' name, Amen.