BUDGET CUTS and God's provision, His word ~ The Agenda items for May 17, 2011 include budget MAJOR INCOME cuts for employees of the City of Stockton. The new City Manager is FAIR as he honestly shows us the numbers. INCOME cuts for the police Depart will be enforced by Jul 1, 2011. ONE CHRIST MINDED OFFICER SHARED: Kim and I live a pretty simple life, I moved into an apartment and I have one car. My biggest expense financing one kid through nursing school. In short, should all the cuts be imposed, we will no longer be able to pay all of our bills. Anger, frustration, worry, and an overpowering sense that this isn't right filled me. In 8 months I turn 50 and can retire. After 25 years of loyal service this ONE council meeting will change all our plans for retirement and beyond. THE GOOD NEWS: 
A still small voice calmed my emotions. "Worry NOT" The ever present Holy Spirit comforted me when I turned to Him. Scripture says to be thankful in all things. It doesn't say just when things are great or going your way, but all things. I was ashamed and humbled and I cried out in prayer. Prayer is the first thing I should have done and not the last. I turned all of this over to the Lord and prayed that His will be done. If His will means that I lose everything, then so be it. That is easy to say and I would be lying if I said there is still not an internal battle going on inside myself, but when I feel the battle raging, I immediately go to prayer and scripture. Evil is real and satan and his minions are doing everything they can to exploit situations like these. Satan is definitely prowling the earth seeking those he can devour. Satan is running rampant in TV programming, in all the FACTS the news delivers, he is an effective tormentor. God works all for His glory and it is all part of His plan. As my faith is tested, admittedly, I have had a pretty easy life and have not wanted for much. If this is part of my trial, then praise God that He deems me worthy to face this with His help. Life on this earth is a blip in light of eternity and it doesn't matter how low I am forced down while I live this life. My life with Jesus in eternity will be glorious and there will be no city manager, president or congressman that can change my destiny. God found me worthy enough to go to a cross and suffer the worst kind of death. I will live forever surrounded by love. I will forever have the privilege of being in the presence and worshiping my Lord and Savior. Praise God and remember that He is sovereign. He can do what He wants, when He wants. Do not get discouraged, but stay on your knees giving glory to the only One who is truly worthy. LIVING forever gives us REAL HOPE knowing that "this too shall pass"
