Moments with Meryl
by Meryl Langley

Since becoming a Christian, there has been some great experiences in my life–yet none to equal Summer Camp ’94. To be physically present with my extended Christ family was literally heaven on earth to me. Every aspect of life was lived out: bible study, exhortation, honest sharing, singing, working, shopping, some sleep(!) and even a talent night!! I know each and everyone there was very grateful to God for our time together, but all too soon we were saying our goodbyes and flying home.

So now it’s back to the daily routine and for most of us difficult situations and relationships to faith into. "This is so difficult; ah, but Meryl, it’s the same Christ operating in England as in America. But I miss the opportunities of being able to really talk this truth every moment of the day; if only we were permanently in Boone. Well, Meryl, you are not–you’re exactly where God wants you, so you’d better believe that and get on with the work God wants to do through you here!"

Then I got to work and for two days all I could see was injustice, backbiting, frustration, despair and confusion to say nothing of the two week backlog of work waiting for me to catch up with. I wanted out NOW. For two days I kept saying that even my presence in the department meant Jesus Christ was there, and this really was God’s highest and best for me.

Before leaving home on the third day, I said "God, I can’t go on like this, something has to happen. I picked up the "Intercessor" and read Norman’s article "God Determines, Not Permits," taken from his book Who Am I? It was saying EVERY situation is God in disguise. "God is the one who deliberately puts us in the problem situation and thus awakens us to get into faith action." It’s not the outer circumstances that cause the suffering, but the inner sorrow when we commit "the fundamental sin of ‘the evil heart of unbelief"’–rebellious, resenting, resisting inner attitude. "OK, God, I get the picture; I really do and am so thankful." It’s no longer a problem and frustration to me, but God in His perfect manifestation of Himself in love and power.

At every point of temptation today, I reminded myself "It’s OK, God means even this" (particularly the interruption of the telephone when I wanted to concentrate on my schedule.) Having this renewed attitude also gave me an opportunity to talk about God with one of my co-workers. God is so good; not only did He remind me that He is in control, but also gave me an opportunity to be Christ for someone else. I might stay in my present employment I might move on it’s reall not so important now that right believing is restored. Actually, it could be quite exciting to see what God will do. I’ll let you know!