"The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the Lord" (Proverbs 16:33). Nothing happens in our lives that God hasn't appointed to benefit our spiritual lives. Even a lot cast recklessly by us will eventually be recycled beautifully by Him. Therefore, don't put your trust into the cast of the lot, but rather learn to cast the lot of your trust upon Him who is always in control.

These thoughts were written in March of 2013 while I was incarcerated at Mid-State Correctional Facility. As I re-read them now all of this time later, I realize they are still appropriate. These thoughts are still the desire of my heart ("that Jesus may increase and I may decrease"):

"I just want to be avoided or overlooked by my peers and especially by the...

Do not lose heart Christian, this world is not your home. Perhaps God has allowed struggle into your life to detach you from this world and move you into His Word. You see, the Word of God is eternal and it's where your heart belongs. The Word of God is powerful and it's where the cares of this world dissolve. "Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me" (John 14:1).