GOD WORKS IN MYSTERIOUS WAYS. It’s not actually a Bible verse, but a condensed version of Isaiah 55:8-9, “”For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” says the LORD. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts.”

Anyone who has walked with the Lord for a good length of time can attest to this. He doesn’t always do what I want, but rather what’s best. Look at the life of Joseph- sold into slavery, falsely accused, put in prison; all to get him to a position to save many. I don’t always understand what He’s doing. In my 20’s, I had adult onset acne and began praying for “new skin”. I prayed this for years as my skin got worse and I had scarring.

Recently, I’ve just gone through a very hard season and wanted to quit. Back in October, a group of ladies were praying over me and one lady says, “God is giving you new skin”. I wrote it down on my prayer list and forgot about it. Just a few days ago, I was praying over my list and the Lord spoke to me, “Crystal, you prayed for new skin all those years ago, and I answered; but not in the way you intended. I’m giving you new, stronger skin to withstand the attacks of the enemy. I answered according to what I knew you were going to need, not necessarily what you wanted.”

Mysterious indeed! 25 years later, God answered. Little did I know He was toughening up my “skin” the whole time. Here’s the gem: trust that He knows what He’s doing at all times. He hears, He knows, He cares and He will answer in His way and His time. #runyourrace

To Learn More About Pastor Crystal please visit the Leadership Page