This Life Is Not Carefree

1 Pet.5:6-9 NIV Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 8 Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 9 Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings. Any good we receive,Any good we giveIs possible onlybecause of God's faithful goodness first! Ps. 119:67-72 Before I was afflicted I went astray,But now I keep Your word. You are good, and do good;Teach me Your statutes. The proud have forged[] a lie against me,But I will keep Your precepts with my whole heart. Their heart is []as fat as grease,But I delight in Your law. It is good for me that I have been afflicted,That I may learn Your statutes. The law of Your mouth is better to meThan thousands of coins of gold and silver. Between what was, and waitsToday unfolds faith’s dueWhere joys and sorrows rush dawn's gatesWhere trial’s tests pursue... This life is not carefreeBeneath Refinement’s rodHappiness grants no guaranteeUnless/until we trust in/yield to God Between what was, and waitsToday unfolds faith’s dueWhere joys and sorrows rush dawn's gatesWhere trial’s tests pursue God, in each hour of needAttends humilityHe grants us power to proceedWhere life is not carefree So then, press on, assuredFor we are not aloneAs we face cares not yet enduredAnd battles not yet won If God is on our sideDefeat will not prevailFor He is near; his truths abideHis purpose will not fail His loving kindness hearsDevotion’s agonyBeneath refinement’s rod appearsAn angel of mercy …and faith is overjoyedWhat God deigns, we will doAs we, cast down but not destroyedFaith and courage renew For life is not carefreeWhere sin’s consequence painsGod’s love, proven at CalvaryStill faithfully sustains Author of earth and HeavenLove oft must suffer lossWith every care, Thy grace is givenTo help us bear its cross We thank Thee, faithful Lord/God aboveFor Thou art good alwaysThough life is not carefree, Thy Word/Thy loveAnoints our souls/goals with praise Janet Martin