[Newsletter] Daily Devotional

[littlejane at rgcministries.com]

The Ring


Read: Philippians 1:12-17


The things which happened to me have actually turned out for the  
furtherance of the gospel. ~ Philippians 1:12


I?m not much for jewelry. A wedding ring was all I ever wanted ? until  
now. Next to my wedding ring, in the little finger of my left hand,  
rests a simple silver band. It?s my daughter Melissa?s.

Soon after Mell died in a car accident in June 2002, just 6 weeks  
short of her 18th birthday, I was in her bedroom when I found the  
ring. I recalled having seen it on her beautiful hand.

I slipped it on and was surprised that it fit. Now I wear it all the  
time. Here?s why: I can look at it or touch it and feel close to my  
precious daughter. Knowing that it graced her finger warms my heart  
when I miss her the most.

But there?s another reason I wear her ring. I want people to notice it  
and ask me about it. Then I can tell them of Melissa and her life of  
love, faith, and fun. I hope it opens conversations that will allow me  
to introduce people to Melissa?s Savior, and mine.

The Apostle Paul used his chains ? his imprisonment ? to advance the  
gospel (Philippians 1:12). It wasn?t that he enjoyed being  
incarcerated, but he knew it could be turned to good purposes. It?s  
like the ring. I wish it wasn?t mine; I wish Melissa was still  
enjoying it. But she?s not, and I want this tragic circumstance to  
bring glory to God.

Is there a loss in your life that God can use?

~ Dave Branon

Our God works to transform us
Till life on earth is done;
He uses trials and testings
To make us like His Son.

~ Sper


Thought For The Day:
God can transform a tragedy into a triumph.