SIEZE THE DAY VS. SURVIVE THE DAY 4/22/2016
Fuel for Friday~ "Go, eat your food with gladness, and drink your wine with a joyful heart, for God has already approved what you do. Always be clothed in white, and always anoint your head with oil. Enjoy life with your wife, whom you love, all the days of this meaningless life that God has given you under the sun—all your meaningless days. For this is your lot in life and in your toilsome labor under the sun. Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for in the realm of the dead, where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom." Ecclesiastes 9:7-10
Carpe Diem! Haven't we all heard this phrase and felt compelled to try live by it at some point in time. College graduation is near and soon we will enter the "real" world and have to work every day...all day - Seize the day! The baby will be turning one soon and is growing up too fast; enjoy every precious coo and kiss those little feet...seize the day! A friend or loved one is diagnosed with a life-threatening medical condition and the brevity of life smacks you in the face - carpe diem! The children are going off to college and an empty nest is on the horizon...seize the day! We all have chapters in our lives or events that startle us into the realization that our days on this Earth are numbered or merely that change is inevitable and we need to enjoy the moments we have before they are gone.
Carpe Diem - so inspiring, such a nice thought, but isn't it difficult to use a daily mantra? Inevitably, dirty diapers, dirty clothes and dirty dishes overcome my desire for greatness and a feeling of "just make it through the day" takes it place. When little boy #1 is in the hospital or otherwise ill, I am reminded to cherish each day, but just like the daily chores, when he is having a good stretch of health, the daily whining and fits nudge my urgency to soak in every detail and cherish each moment further from my mind. How do we approach this desire of great expectations and the reality of life's and our own shortcomings? Here are two places to start:
First, acknowledge that satisfaction apart from God is futile. Consequently, as we seize the day, God must be intricately woven into how we do our "seizing." Solomon, gifted with incredible wisdom, writes throughout Ecclesiastes that if we live our days as gifts from God, these days will accumulate to create an abundant and good life. This does not mean that all of the details of God's work in our lives will be made known to us. So, the poopy days (in my case, when I deal with 3 boys and all of their diapers and potty mishaps interspersed with cleaning up their dirty shoes because I didn't clean the backyard up after the dog), will happen but the accumulation of all of our days is when we will see and experience the good life! This leads to #2.
We all will experience divine judgment - hence the necessity to incorporate God into our daily living. But, we also experience divine blessings. Not taken in excess, we can eat, drink, and be merry! Solomon writes, "...eat your food with gladness, and drink your wine with a joyful heart...whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might..." God gave us life in order to live joyfully and abundantly. Recognize these daily blessings. On my poopy days, I can rejoice that I have a backyard for 3 young boys to play in, sun that kisses their faces, and an awesome bed to pass out on that night!
The Message's translation below highlights that we all end our lives in the grave; while we live...Carpe Diem!
"Seize life! Eat bread with gusto, drink wine with a robust heart. Oh yes—God takes pleasure in your pleasure! Dress festively every morning. Don’t skimp on colors and scarves. Relish life with the spouse you love each and every day of your precarious life. Each day is God’s gift. It’s all you get in exchange for the hard work of staying alive. Make the most of each one! Whatever turns up, grab it and do it. And heartily! This is your last and only chance at it, for there’s neither work to do nor thoughts to think in the company of the dead, where you’re most certainly headed."
Carpe Diem! Haven't we all heard this phrase and felt compelled to try live by it at some point in time. College graduation is near and soon we will enter the "real" world and have to work every day...all day - Seize the day! The baby will be turning one soon and is growing up too fast; enjoy every precious coo and kiss those little feet...seize the day! A friend or loved one is diagnosed with a life-threatening medical condition and the brevity of life smacks you in the face - carpe diem! The children are going off to college and an empty nest is on the horizon...seize the day! We all have chapters in our lives or events that startle us into the realization that our days on this Earth are numbered or merely that change is inevitable and we need to enjoy the moments we have before they are gone.
Carpe Diem - so inspiring, such a nice thought, but isn't it difficult to use a daily mantra? Inevitably, dirty diapers, dirty clothes and dirty dishes overcome my desire for greatness and a feeling of "just make it through the day" takes it place. When little boy #1 is in the hospital or otherwise ill, I am reminded to cherish each day, but just like the daily chores, when he is having a good stretch of health, the daily whining and fits nudge my urgency to soak in every detail and cherish each moment further from my mind. How do we approach this desire of great expectations and the reality of life's and our own shortcomings? Here are two places to start:
First, acknowledge that satisfaction apart from God is futile. Consequently, as we seize the day, God must be intricately woven into how we do our "seizing." Solomon, gifted with incredible wisdom, writes throughout Ecclesiastes that if we live our days as gifts from God, these days will accumulate to create an abundant and good life. This does not mean that all of the details of God's work in our lives will be made known to us. So, the poopy days (in my case, when I deal with 3 boys and all of their diapers and potty mishaps interspersed with cleaning up their dirty shoes because I didn't clean the backyard up after the dog), will happen but the accumulation of all of our days is when we will see and experience the good life! This leads to #2.
We all will experience divine judgment - hence the necessity to incorporate God into our daily living. But, we also experience divine blessings. Not taken in excess, we can eat, drink, and be merry! Solomon writes, "...eat your food with gladness, and drink your wine with a joyful heart...whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might..." God gave us life in order to live joyfully and abundantly. Recognize these daily blessings. On my poopy days, I can rejoice that I have a backyard for 3 young boys to play in, sun that kisses their faces, and an awesome bed to pass out on that night!
The Message's translation below highlights that we all end our lives in the grave; while we live...Carpe Diem!
"Seize life! Eat bread with gusto, drink wine with a robust heart. Oh yes—God takes pleasure in your pleasure! Dress festively every morning. Don’t skimp on colors and scarves. Relish life with the spouse you love each and every day of your precarious life. Each day is God’s gift. It’s all you get in exchange for the hard work of staying alive. Make the most of each one! Whatever turns up, grab it and do it. And heartily! This is your last and only chance at it, for there’s neither work to do nor thoughts to think in the company of the dead, where you’re most certainly headed."
Letting Go 3/11/2016
Fuel for Friday~ "Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” Psalm 91:1-2
Life is, in large part, a lesson in letting go. As children we innately try to get things and then hold on to them. As we grow, we accumulate stuff, friends, and memories. Throughout the entire experience, we lose things every once in awhile, and we have to learn how to deal with those losses. As we get older, we come to understand that we have to let go of things (people, dreams...) out of choice and sometimes against our will. Eventually, we have to let go of life itself. The acceptance and grace with which we learn to let go has an immense impact on the life we live.
When little boy #1 came into this world, and the world as I knew it changed completely and forever, I didn't try to convince God to heal him or make an unspoken deal with Him...but I hoped beyond all hope that this was my trial by fire. And I mean the heart diagnosis - and that was all! Little boy #1 has since had multiple other diagnoses that continue to teach me to let go; let go of dreams I had for myself, for my son, for my family, and possibly one day to let go of my little boy himself. This learning how to let go feels like a battle, one that is waged in my mind on a daily basis; a fight between my desire to hold on and my knowledge that God is in control and I can find rest and peace if I trust Him. It is amazing how deep our trust must reach. I have accepted that God has a unique will and plan for little boy #1, but I have come to understand that although I trust God's will for him, I still have a lot of letting go to do.
Perhaps I did not make a specific deal with God, but I know my hope did come along with other hopeful expectations along these lines: I will love this little child you have blessed me with and walk through every type of storm with him....but cancer won't creep into my life, my husband will not be put in harm's way, my other children will be healthy...right God? One of my greatest fears is that while I am waiting for a complication to take the life of little boy #1, some random catastrophe will steal the life of one of my "healthy" kiddos.
Fear robs me of complete peace. But, God does not want us to live our life in fear. He desires to be the fortress we run to - a stronghold protecting us if we allow Him to. Everything on this Earth is on loan to us from God. Remember, that we will all eventually have to let go of life itself. So whether we choose to let go or something is ripped out of our hands or our hearts, we can take comfort in knowing, in trusting, that God is our refuge even if this Earthly hurt stings deeply. You can love dearly but hold on loosely, resting in the knowledge that all we let go of is in entrusted to God's care. This trust will yield peace even when letting go hurts.
Life is, in large part, a lesson in letting go. As children we innately try to get things and then hold on to them. As we grow, we accumulate stuff, friends, and memories. Throughout the entire experience, we lose things every once in awhile, and we have to learn how to deal with those losses. As we get older, we come to understand that we have to let go of things (people, dreams...) out of choice and sometimes against our will. Eventually, we have to let go of life itself. The acceptance and grace with which we learn to let go has an immense impact on the life we live.
When little boy #1 came into this world, and the world as I knew it changed completely and forever, I didn't try to convince God to heal him or make an unspoken deal with Him...but I hoped beyond all hope that this was my trial by fire. And I mean the heart diagnosis - and that was all! Little boy #1 has since had multiple other diagnoses that continue to teach me to let go; let go of dreams I had for myself, for my son, for my family, and possibly one day to let go of my little boy himself. This learning how to let go feels like a battle, one that is waged in my mind on a daily basis; a fight between my desire to hold on and my knowledge that God is in control and I can find rest and peace if I trust Him. It is amazing how deep our trust must reach. I have accepted that God has a unique will and plan for little boy #1, but I have come to understand that although I trust God's will for him, I still have a lot of letting go to do.
Perhaps I did not make a specific deal with God, but I know my hope did come along with other hopeful expectations along these lines: I will love this little child you have blessed me with and walk through every type of storm with him....but cancer won't creep into my life, my husband will not be put in harm's way, my other children will be healthy...right God? One of my greatest fears is that while I am waiting for a complication to take the life of little boy #1, some random catastrophe will steal the life of one of my "healthy" kiddos.
Fear robs me of complete peace. But, God does not want us to live our life in fear. He desires to be the fortress we run to - a stronghold protecting us if we allow Him to. Everything on this Earth is on loan to us from God. Remember, that we will all eventually have to let go of life itself. So whether we choose to let go or something is ripped out of our hands or our hearts, we can take comfort in knowing, in trusting, that God is our refuge even if this Earthly hurt stings deeply. You can love dearly but hold on loosely, resting in the knowledge that all we let go of is in entrusted to God's care. This trust will yield peace even when letting go hurts.
SPECIAL NEEDS SPOTLIGHT 1/22/2106
While the East Coast was waking up in anticipation of a massive snow storm, I sat in the wee hours of the morning with little boy #3 with The Mamas and Papas lyrics, "California dreaming on such a winter's day" playing in my head....while I expect many Easterners are California dreaming, I had the wonderful idea last night of catching a flight with the family, finding a cabin, and enjoying being snowed in for the weekend. We miss the snow, but I can't complain about our weather. I am looking forward to playing soccer with little boy #2 this afternoon. For all of you reading this while watching snow drift outside of your window - stay safe and enjoy!
Fuel for Friday~ This post isn't my usual Friday post, but it is one that hits close to home. January is Sanctity of Human Life month. Nine years ago, we chose to continue a pregnancy that doctor's suggested we terminate. Despite the difficulties, pain, and heartache that we have experienced, little boy #1's life is just as valuable and precious as any other little human life. Yeah for a month that recognizes that each and every human life is of utmost importance and invaluable!
I have yet to cut all ties with our life from before our move and still receive emails from our previous church. This week I received an email that Focus on the Family was doing a two part interview with the pastor and his wife regarding special needs children and how the church can help. I wanted to share this for two reasons. 1) We were extremely blessed to have benefited from our pastor and his wife and the choice they made to turn the experiences they had/have with their special needs daughter into a beautiful outreach to special needs kiddos and their families in the D.C. area. 2) Families that have special needs children are plentiful. Church's that can accommodate them are not. If some type of disability has affected your family or friends, and this is an area that touches your heart, I encourage you to see if you can assist your church in reaching this special population.
Churches don't need to be mega churches to have a special needs ministry. Although it will definitely look different, small churches can come alongside these families and provide much needed support. We are immensely grateful to the four years of incredible ministry both we and little boy #1 received from a church of 15,000 before we moved. We are equally grateful for the church of about 50 we now attend! I haven't listened to both broadcasts yet, but plan to before the end of the weekend. If you are interested, here are the links: http://www.focusonthefamily.com/media/daily-broadcast/special-needs-children-how-the-church-can-help-pt1 and http://www.focusonthefamily.com/media/daily-broadcast/special-needs-children-how-the-church-can-help-pt2. The interview gives some keen insight to what many of these families go through and some practical ways to minister to them.
I wish everyone a safe and wonderful weekend whether you are wearing a swimming suit or snow pants!
Fuel for Friday~ This post isn't my usual Friday post, but it is one that hits close to home. January is Sanctity of Human Life month. Nine years ago, we chose to continue a pregnancy that doctor's suggested we terminate. Despite the difficulties, pain, and heartache that we have experienced, little boy #1's life is just as valuable and precious as any other little human life. Yeah for a month that recognizes that each and every human life is of utmost importance and invaluable!
I have yet to cut all ties with our life from before our move and still receive emails from our previous church. This week I received an email that Focus on the Family was doing a two part interview with the pastor and his wife regarding special needs children and how the church can help. I wanted to share this for two reasons. 1) We were extremely blessed to have benefited from our pastor and his wife and the choice they made to turn the experiences they had/have with their special needs daughter into a beautiful outreach to special needs kiddos and their families in the D.C. area. 2) Families that have special needs children are plentiful. Church's that can accommodate them are not. If some type of disability has affected your family or friends, and this is an area that touches your heart, I encourage you to see if you can assist your church in reaching this special population.
Churches don't need to be mega churches to have a special needs ministry. Although it will definitely look different, small churches can come alongside these families and provide much needed support. We are immensely grateful to the four years of incredible ministry both we and little boy #1 received from a church of 15,000 before we moved. We are equally grateful for the church of about 50 we now attend! I haven't listened to both broadcasts yet, but plan to before the end of the weekend. If you are interested, here are the links: http://www.focusonthefamily.com/media/daily-broadcast/special-needs-children-how-the-church-can-help-pt1 and http://www.focusonthefamily.com/media/daily-broadcast/special-needs-children-how-the-church-can-help-pt2. The interview gives some keen insight to what many of these families go through and some practical ways to minister to them.
I wish everyone a safe and wonderful weekend whether you are wearing a swimming suit or snow pants!
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HONESTY & HUMILITY 12/11/2015
Fuel for Friday~ Philippians 2:3-4 (NIV) "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others."
Last week I made a quick trip to my hair salon. It was mid-morning and the small room was filled by the owner of the salon, a few stylists, and a three or four moms escaping for a cut or color while the kiddos were at school. The salon is small and conversations drift quite easily, so my curiosity piqued when I heard a not so happy tone and unpleasant remarks regarding "mommy bloggers." I enjoyed the perspective I had; listening non-conspicuously forced more objectiveness than if I had been an active participant. Many valid points were made, ones I made myself only a few weeks ago. I especially enjoyed one woman's mention of the contrast of many bloggers' perfect houses while she had a sign that read, "Excuse the mess, we live here!"
Despite the uncanny observations of how we can all allude to a better version of ourselves when writing online with pictures of only the clean room of the house and not the clutter that was moved to the corner in order to take the picturesque photograph, I knew I was listening to a mom who owned her own business and was balancing work, children, and everything else in life. Her messy house was okay in light of the work she did outside of the home and the bountiful hours she spent at the park playing with her children, not cleaning her house or sitting in front of the computer blogging about her perfect house (her comparison not mine). In all honesty, we all have to be careful that the animate objects in our lives, whether it be friends, children or husbands, take priority over the world wide web. We all know how easy it is to lose an hour in front of a screen before we know it. Perhaps a different perspective from the woman commenting on the misplaced priorities of the bloggers is that a mommy blogger just cleaned the house after the children had an amazing time with finger paint and magic markers, happened upon a great cleaning tip and thought it worth sharing.
Either perspective or reality has one truth - we all love the spotlight. Whether it is the working mom who wants to be recognized for her ability to create stylish hair cuts while also being an awesome mommy to her kiddos or the mommy blogger who is organizationally creative or a master in the kitchen and wants to share her amazing home and ideas with others, we all like the approval and attention from others. Both talents have their merits, and God gave these talents to us to use and to share. However, we must be mindful of ourselves and always evaluate our true motives.
The Greek word used for selfish ambition in Phillipians 2 "is sometimes rendered 'strife' because it refers to factionalism [and] rivalry."* How true it is that our selfishness so often creates strife. When we abandon the need for our own spotlight, we are better able to shine it on others and look to their interests. Esteeming them instead of ourselves is a picture of true humility; a quality that speaks for itself.
*The MacArthur Bible Commentary, John MacArthur, pg. 1715
Last week I made a quick trip to my hair salon. It was mid-morning and the small room was filled by the owner of the salon, a few stylists, and a three or four moms escaping for a cut or color while the kiddos were at school. The salon is small and conversations drift quite easily, so my curiosity piqued when I heard a not so happy tone and unpleasant remarks regarding "mommy bloggers." I enjoyed the perspective I had; listening non-conspicuously forced more objectiveness than if I had been an active participant. Many valid points were made, ones I made myself only a few weeks ago. I especially enjoyed one woman's mention of the contrast of many bloggers' perfect houses while she had a sign that read, "Excuse the mess, we live here!"
Despite the uncanny observations of how we can all allude to a better version of ourselves when writing online with pictures of only the clean room of the house and not the clutter that was moved to the corner in order to take the picturesque photograph, I knew I was listening to a mom who owned her own business and was balancing work, children, and everything else in life. Her messy house was okay in light of the work she did outside of the home and the bountiful hours she spent at the park playing with her children, not cleaning her house or sitting in front of the computer blogging about her perfect house (her comparison not mine). In all honesty, we all have to be careful that the animate objects in our lives, whether it be friends, children or husbands, take priority over the world wide web. We all know how easy it is to lose an hour in front of a screen before we know it. Perhaps a different perspective from the woman commenting on the misplaced priorities of the bloggers is that a mommy blogger just cleaned the house after the children had an amazing time with finger paint and magic markers, happened upon a great cleaning tip and thought it worth sharing.
Either perspective or reality has one truth - we all love the spotlight. Whether it is the working mom who wants to be recognized for her ability to create stylish hair cuts while also being an awesome mommy to her kiddos or the mommy blogger who is organizationally creative or a master in the kitchen and wants to share her amazing home and ideas with others, we all like the approval and attention from others. Both talents have their merits, and God gave these talents to us to use and to share. However, we must be mindful of ourselves and always evaluate our true motives.
The Greek word used for selfish ambition in Phillipians 2 "is sometimes rendered 'strife' because it refers to factionalism [and] rivalry."* How true it is that our selfishness so often creates strife. When we abandon the need for our own spotlight, we are better able to shine it on others and look to their interests. Esteeming them instead of ourselves is a picture of true humility; a quality that speaks for itself.
*The MacArthur Bible Commentary, John MacArthur, pg. 1715
THANKSGIVING TOP TEN
I'm sorry I did not write two of my usual posts last week! I was going to take this week off, but since I essentially did that this week, I hope you will have time during the Thanksgiving holiday to still check-in.
In honor of Thanksgiving, I thought I would write my top ten things I am thankful for…
1) The Unknown - it keeps life exciting!
2) Our ability as humans to change (often only with God's help)
3) My ability to be physically active
4) The intricate beauty of this Earth; sunrises, sunsets, the seasons, mountain peaks, lush green valleys..
5) My friends: "Friendship is unnecessary, like philosophy, like art... It has no survival value; rather it is one of those things that give value to survival." C.S. Lewis
6) My husband's stable job and the physical comforts it provides
7) My health - never to be taken for granted!
8) My freedom - to think, to worship, to express myself
9) My family - "Home is people, not a place."
10) God's Grace & Mercy - to receive what I don't deserve and not receive what I do deserve
If the holiday is more hectic than desired…"Keep Calm & Gobble On!"
I hope you and yours have a wonderful Thanksgiving and that you lose count when recalling the blessings you have received this year!
In honor of Thanksgiving, I thought I would write my top ten things I am thankful for…
1) The Unknown - it keeps life exciting!
2) Our ability as humans to change (often only with God's help)
3) My ability to be physically active
4) The intricate beauty of this Earth; sunrises, sunsets, the seasons, mountain peaks, lush green valleys..
5) My friends: "Friendship is unnecessary, like philosophy, like art... It has no survival value; rather it is one of those things that give value to survival." C.S. Lewis
6) My husband's stable job and the physical comforts it provides
7) My health - never to be taken for granted!
8) My freedom - to think, to worship, to express myself
9) My family - "Home is people, not a place."
10) God's Grace & Mercy - to receive what I don't deserve and not receive what I do deserve
If the holiday is more hectic than desired…"Keep Calm & Gobble On!"
I hope you and yours have a wonderful Thanksgiving and that you lose count when recalling the blessings you have received this year!
This may seem like an odd picture to choose for a Thanksgiving post. It is of Bodie and I swinging on a beautiful sunny day. Nothing like sunshine, giggles, and a swing set to remember what innocent freedom feels like. I am thankful to get a glimmer of childhood every once in awhile!
Freedom to choose
Fuel for Friday…
John 8:31-32 “To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
Two weeks ago I shared John 8:32, the second part of the verse above. Below, is this same truth in a slightly different light...
In this life we will never experience freedom from sin or evil, sickness or pain. We live in a fallen world. However, we all know or know of people held captive by their past mistakes, and in my case, moms who are trapped by their child’s illness. As a mom, I see this as an easy place to find yourself, especially when so much of your life revolves around the needs of your child: when you can eat, how much you can sleep, if you can be away from the house, how many medicines and supplies you have to pack if you do leave, where you can vacation - if you can vacation at all, if you can ever leave your child in someone else’s care for much needed downtime, etc.
Sometimes these constraints lead some to feel trapped; that God has not been fair to them...if God exists at all. Acknowledging that emotionally we all have our good days and our bad days, it is still possible to be set free from these worldly constraints if you know and trust in God’s truth. Your life may not be easy, but your hardship doesn’t have to control you. His freedom allows for that peace that lets you find his blessings in the midst of your pain.
We have control over little in our world, but we do have full control over how we think and how we live. One of God's greatest gifts to us is the freedom to choose. If we have the Holy Spirit is living in us, we are free to live. To be set free is to decide to trust God. Corrie ten Boom, a Holocaust survivor, found this peace in the midst of complete devastation and despair and left these valuable words of wisdom. Her ability to have her attitude in spite of all of her suffering and the suffering around her inspires me to pursue a path reliant on God's truth so that I can walk through this life in His strength, peace, and freedom.
* "It is not my ability, but my response to God’s ability, that counts." Corrie ten Boom
** "Happiness isn't something that depends on our surroundings...It's something we make inside ourselves." Corrie ten Boom
*** "You can never learn that Christ is all you need, until Christ is all you have." Corrie ten Boom
John 8:31-32 “To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
Two weeks ago I shared John 8:32, the second part of the verse above. Below, is this same truth in a slightly different light...
In this life we will never experience freedom from sin or evil, sickness or pain. We live in a fallen world. However, we all know or know of people held captive by their past mistakes, and in my case, moms who are trapped by their child’s illness. As a mom, I see this as an easy place to find yourself, especially when so much of your life revolves around the needs of your child: when you can eat, how much you can sleep, if you can be away from the house, how many medicines and supplies you have to pack if you do leave, where you can vacation - if you can vacation at all, if you can ever leave your child in someone else’s care for much needed downtime, etc.
Sometimes these constraints lead some to feel trapped; that God has not been fair to them...if God exists at all. Acknowledging that emotionally we all have our good days and our bad days, it is still possible to be set free from these worldly constraints if you know and trust in God’s truth. Your life may not be easy, but your hardship doesn’t have to control you. His freedom allows for that peace that lets you find his blessings in the midst of your pain.
We have control over little in our world, but we do have full control over how we think and how we live. One of God's greatest gifts to us is the freedom to choose. If we have the Holy Spirit is living in us, we are free to live. To be set free is to decide to trust God. Corrie ten Boom, a Holocaust survivor, found this peace in the midst of complete devastation and despair and left these valuable words of wisdom. Her ability to have her attitude in spite of all of her suffering and the suffering around her inspires me to pursue a path reliant on God's truth so that I can walk through this life in His strength, peace, and freedom.
* "It is not my ability, but my response to God’s ability, that counts." Corrie ten Boom
** "Happiness isn't something that depends on our surroundings...It's something we make inside ourselves." Corrie ten Boom
*** "You can never learn that Christ is all you need, until Christ is all you have." Corrie ten Boom
Made for a Purpose
Our little superman, 4 1/2 months old.
Fuel for Friday…
Esther 4:14 “For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father's family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?"
Isn't it amazing to think that we were born specifically who we are, where we were, and at this precise time for a specific reason? Our lives aren't happenstance. This does not mean that we aren't in control of our lives or our decisions though. We each still choose how we live this life that is given to us.
God places each of us where we are and calls us to a task. Like Esther, we all have the free will to choose how we respond. Although at times, it may be difficult to see the choices that we can own, each day there are choices to be made: optimism and perseverance over depression or defeat, trust and faithfulness instead of anger or a lack of faith in God.
These choices can be a daily struggle, even an hourly fight, when bad news keeps coming our way or circumstances seem hopeless. For those of us with sick children or loved ones, test results constantly yielding bad news or hospital monitors that continue to beep warning of numbers we don't want to see make us feel out of control or without options. It is in these moments we need to heed our call and obey. We may unknowingly be a silent witness to the nurse watching over our child or the next door neighbor who doesn’t know God’s love. Our hopeful demeanor when hope does not abound, joy in spite of pain, or action that defies this world's logic but follows God's voice all move us toward fulfilling the position which God has created us specifically to fill. We may not ever be known as a superhero, but whatever our calling, it will have a powerful part to play in God's plan.
Esther 4:14 “For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father's family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?"
Isn't it amazing to think that we were born specifically who we are, where we were, and at this precise time for a specific reason? Our lives aren't happenstance. This does not mean that we aren't in control of our lives or our decisions though. We each still choose how we live this life that is given to us.
God places each of us where we are and calls us to a task. Like Esther, we all have the free will to choose how we respond. Although at times, it may be difficult to see the choices that we can own, each day there are choices to be made: optimism and perseverance over depression or defeat, trust and faithfulness instead of anger or a lack of faith in God.
These choices can be a daily struggle, even an hourly fight, when bad news keeps coming our way or circumstances seem hopeless. For those of us with sick children or loved ones, test results constantly yielding bad news or hospital monitors that continue to beep warning of numbers we don't want to see make us feel out of control or without options. It is in these moments we need to heed our call and obey. We may unknowingly be a silent witness to the nurse watching over our child or the next door neighbor who doesn’t know God’s love. Our hopeful demeanor when hope does not abound, joy in spite of pain, or action that defies this world's logic but follows God's voice all move us toward fulfilling the position which God has created us specifically to fill. We may not ever be known as a superhero, but whatever our calling, it will have a powerful part to play in God's plan.
SET FREE
Fuel For Friday...
John 8:32 "Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."
When little boy #1 was a babe, our truth was God could keep him alive or God could take him home. We thought about his future, quality of life, if and how much care he would need as he grew up, and the potential for him to be independent one day, but those concerns were peripheral to day to day life and his survival.
As he has gotten older, and we are dealing with more questions about what he understands and how much of this world he can absorb and process, I find myself often feeling that if we could just KNOW we could parent him so much better. I want to know the truth - when he ignores me, is it because he is testing boundaries, being defiant, being seven, or sometimes does he truly not understand the request, rule…I gave him. It is amazing how children can seem beyond their years in brilliance and behind the power curve in a matter of mere minutes. In our case, we have no normal range to reference, so when one day it seems that he is able and competent to listen and comprehend us and the next day is the complete opposite, we struggle between whether to discipline or concede that he may not have correctly processed the situation or even have the ability to do so. Much of parenting, whether you have typical or special needs kiddos, feels like a learning experience with a blindfold on. Sometimes we may not know which direction is forward much less have a perfect understanding of how to determine which advice, professional opinions, etc. are the correct and true ones to follow.
Similarly, all of today's books, social media, and research studies can make finding and following the truth an overwhelming and circular chase. We are bound in so many ways if we are trapped in deceipt or ignorant of the truth. We feel these heavy chains that hold us down, restrict our freedom, and keep our joy buried. Are you searching for the truth? Have you thought you found it only to discover that you are searching again?
At some point in our lives, we will all face the reality of what truth we followed. Will you find yourself coming up empty after following that which the world offered or rest in the fullness that comes with following the Living truth. His infallible Word offers the truth and promises our chains will be broken if we accept Him. Imagine raising your kids, maybe not with all of the answers, but knowing how to handle the most important decisions and which lessons will give them the best chance of a successful and joyful life. How much better to live our lives free to soar instead of tethered to this Earth with all of its misery and uncertainty. John 17:17 says "Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth." 2 TImothy 3:16 says "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness." Find your freedom!
John 8:32 "Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."
When little boy #1 was a babe, our truth was God could keep him alive or God could take him home. We thought about his future, quality of life, if and how much care he would need as he grew up, and the potential for him to be independent one day, but those concerns were peripheral to day to day life and his survival.
As he has gotten older, and we are dealing with more questions about what he understands and how much of this world he can absorb and process, I find myself often feeling that if we could just KNOW we could parent him so much better. I want to know the truth - when he ignores me, is it because he is testing boundaries, being defiant, being seven, or sometimes does he truly not understand the request, rule…I gave him. It is amazing how children can seem beyond their years in brilliance and behind the power curve in a matter of mere minutes. In our case, we have no normal range to reference, so when one day it seems that he is able and competent to listen and comprehend us and the next day is the complete opposite, we struggle between whether to discipline or concede that he may not have correctly processed the situation or even have the ability to do so. Much of parenting, whether you have typical or special needs kiddos, feels like a learning experience with a blindfold on. Sometimes we may not know which direction is forward much less have a perfect understanding of how to determine which advice, professional opinions, etc. are the correct and true ones to follow.
Similarly, all of today's books, social media, and research studies can make finding and following the truth an overwhelming and circular chase. We are bound in so many ways if we are trapped in deceipt or ignorant of the truth. We feel these heavy chains that hold us down, restrict our freedom, and keep our joy buried. Are you searching for the truth? Have you thought you found it only to discover that you are searching again?
At some point in our lives, we will all face the reality of what truth we followed. Will you find yourself coming up empty after following that which the world offered or rest in the fullness that comes with following the Living truth. His infallible Word offers the truth and promises our chains will be broken if we accept Him. Imagine raising your kids, maybe not with all of the answers, but knowing how to handle the most important decisions and which lessons will give them the best chance of a successful and joyful life. How much better to live our lives free to soar instead of tethered to this Earth with all of its misery and uncertainty. John 17:17 says "Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth." 2 TImothy 3:16 says "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness." Find your freedom!
new hearts
Fuel for Friday...
Ezekiel 36:26 “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.”
Although by man’s definition my son has a failing heart, an imperfect heart wrought with defects, in reality, the nature of all of our hearts is this way. Psalm 51:5 ("Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me…Create in me a pure heart, O God…”), Jeremiah 17:9 ("The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?"), and Genesis 8:21 ("…every inclination of his [man] heart is evil from childhood…"), candidly point out that all men need God to give them a new heart.
Sometimes I feel that to be more of the person God wants me to be I really need a new brain. I despise the judgmental thoughts that run through my head and the sins I consciously commit. But...what I really need is a heart transplant. God says he will remove our hearts of stone and give us hearts of flesh. As we grow in Him and He gives us our new heart, we will love as he loves – with God’s perfect love that does not judge and does not hurt but forgives and is unconditional.
I fear the day my son may need a heart transplant. The need is a very real one and could come unexpectedly. Unfortunately, his need might not be met here on this earth. There might not be a heart available when his need his critical. Thankfully, we don’t have to have this fear for our spiritual heart transplant. God is ready and eager to give each of us a new heart right now!
Ezekiel 36:26 “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.”
Although by man’s definition my son has a failing heart, an imperfect heart wrought with defects, in reality, the nature of all of our hearts is this way. Psalm 51:5 ("Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me…Create in me a pure heart, O God…”), Jeremiah 17:9 ("The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?"), and Genesis 8:21 ("…every inclination of his [man] heart is evil from childhood…"), candidly point out that all men need God to give them a new heart.
Sometimes I feel that to be more of the person God wants me to be I really need a new brain. I despise the judgmental thoughts that run through my head and the sins I consciously commit. But...what I really need is a heart transplant. God says he will remove our hearts of stone and give us hearts of flesh. As we grow in Him and He gives us our new heart, we will love as he loves – with God’s perfect love that does not judge and does not hurt but forgives and is unconditional.
I fear the day my son may need a heart transplant. The need is a very real one and could come unexpectedly. Unfortunately, his need might not be met here on this earth. There might not be a heart available when his need his critical. Thankfully, we don’t have to have this fear for our spiritual heart transplant. God is ready and eager to give each of us a new heart right now!
HOLDING HANDS
Photo by Amanda Colton
Fuel for Friday…
Psalm 73:23 “Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand.”
When I read this verse one evening, the image of my little boy, in all of his preciousness, and how he reaches up to hold my hand to walk somewhere, came to mind. My little boy mastered walking after the age of two. He wears orthotics on both feet because his ankles are weak due to low-tone and hemiplegia. Plus, learning to walk when you are two and a lot taller and heavier than your average one year old requires more balance and has made walking much more of a learned skill than a natural progression in development. When he his unsure of the surface or is feeling a little tired he reaches up his small hand to grab mine for reassurance, help, and confidence. I love these moments, and even though little boy #2 has no problems walking, and even loves to climb and jump, he, too, often reaches up his little hand to grasp mine. It makes him feel safe…it make me feel loved and needed!
God looks down on us in a similar way – full of love and tenderness. He is more than willing to reach out and grab our outstretched hand. He is even more able and eager to stretch His hand out to us, lift us up when we feel we can no longer stand on our own, walk every step of every journey with us, and carry us when we can not bear to go one more step alone. If you are in a fragile place, feeling as though you are walking at the edge of a cliff that may give way beneath you, grab God's outstretched hand and relish in His strength and safety. If you are walking on solid ground, praise Him for this moment in your life, and place your hand in His, secure in His love for you.
Psalm 73:23 “Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand.”
When I read this verse one evening, the image of my little boy, in all of his preciousness, and how he reaches up to hold my hand to walk somewhere, came to mind. My little boy mastered walking after the age of two. He wears orthotics on both feet because his ankles are weak due to low-tone and hemiplegia. Plus, learning to walk when you are two and a lot taller and heavier than your average one year old requires more balance and has made walking much more of a learned skill than a natural progression in development. When he his unsure of the surface or is feeling a little tired he reaches up his small hand to grab mine for reassurance, help, and confidence. I love these moments, and even though little boy #2 has no problems walking, and even loves to climb and jump, he, too, often reaches up his little hand to grasp mine. It makes him feel safe…it make me feel loved and needed!
God looks down on us in a similar way – full of love and tenderness. He is more than willing to reach out and grab our outstretched hand. He is even more able and eager to stretch His hand out to us, lift us up when we feel we can no longer stand on our own, walk every step of every journey with us, and carry us when we can not bear to go one more step alone. If you are in a fragile place, feeling as though you are walking at the edge of a cliff that may give way beneath you, grab God's outstretched hand and relish in His strength and safety. If you are walking on solid ground, praise Him for this moment in your life, and place your hand in His, secure in His love for you.
Teachable Moments
Home sweet home after craniotomy.
Fuel for Friday...
Deuteronomy 4:9 “Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them.”
In this disposable society it is hard to hold on to things. Products are made to be replaced not to last; we constantly try to supersede last year’s good times with even better ones this year, and when we do hold on we become cluttered and try to better organize and clear out the old to make room for the new. Deuteronomy 4:9 was spoken to the Israelites after Moses received the Ten Commandments and before the nation crossed the Jordan river to enter into the Promised Land. They had just spent 40 years wandering in the desert where, despite the postponement of their ultimate destination, the Lord provided them with food, water and guidance. In this chapter of Deuteronomy, God spoke directly to them at the foot of a mountain ablaze with fire. He did not want them to forget his intimate presence or his commands.
There are moments in life when God has taught us a lesson or performed a miracle. These are valuable moments of intimacy with God; they help us develop our relationship with him and pass teachable moments on to the next generations. Despite the strength of these moments, the monotony of everyday life creeps up on us and overshadows the awesomeness of God’s work. Time makes everything fade – a pleasant reminder for our sadness, but a loss when it causes us to forget God’s goodness. Although we have been blessed with many miracles, one clear act of God is imprinted in my mind. After five months of repeatedly being told that little boy #1 had an inoperable, malignant brain tumor that would take his life in months maybe even weeks, due to one MRI, the right doctors, the right time, and the perseverance of parents with one last hope, the tumor was removed and found to be completely benign – knee cartilage in fact. I can clearly remember the moment in the waiting room when the neurosurgeon came out to tell us the tumor was benign, and he thought he had removed all of it. In one split second life changed. We knew the chances of losing him on the operating table were extremely high, and now not only was he stable and doing well, he was going to live and be able to have his second much-needed open-heart surgery. I revisit this moment often. Not only was it a miracle, it is imperative not to forget that moment and what God did for us that day. It is a clear example of God’s love for us and his hand at work that we can share with our son when he is older as well as a reminder to cling to when times are tough.
Deuteronomy 4:9 “Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them.”
In this disposable society it is hard to hold on to things. Products are made to be replaced not to last; we constantly try to supersede last year’s good times with even better ones this year, and when we do hold on we become cluttered and try to better organize and clear out the old to make room for the new. Deuteronomy 4:9 was spoken to the Israelites after Moses received the Ten Commandments and before the nation crossed the Jordan river to enter into the Promised Land. They had just spent 40 years wandering in the desert where, despite the postponement of their ultimate destination, the Lord provided them with food, water and guidance. In this chapter of Deuteronomy, God spoke directly to them at the foot of a mountain ablaze with fire. He did not want them to forget his intimate presence or his commands.
There are moments in life when God has taught us a lesson or performed a miracle. These are valuable moments of intimacy with God; they help us develop our relationship with him and pass teachable moments on to the next generations. Despite the strength of these moments, the monotony of everyday life creeps up on us and overshadows the awesomeness of God’s work. Time makes everything fade – a pleasant reminder for our sadness, but a loss when it causes us to forget God’s goodness. Although we have been blessed with many miracles, one clear act of God is imprinted in my mind. After five months of repeatedly being told that little boy #1 had an inoperable, malignant brain tumor that would take his life in months maybe even weeks, due to one MRI, the right doctors, the right time, and the perseverance of parents with one last hope, the tumor was removed and found to be completely benign – knee cartilage in fact. I can clearly remember the moment in the waiting room when the neurosurgeon came out to tell us the tumor was benign, and he thought he had removed all of it. In one split second life changed. We knew the chances of losing him on the operating table were extremely high, and now not only was he stable and doing well, he was going to live and be able to have his second much-needed open-heart surgery. I revisit this moment often. Not only was it a miracle, it is imperative not to forget that moment and what God did for us that day. It is a clear example of God’s love for us and his hand at work that we can share with our son when he is older as well as a reminder to cling to when times are tough.
FINDING HOPE
Fuel for Friday…
Romans 15:4,13 "For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope….May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."
Hope - what is hope? Merriam-Webster defines it as, "to cherish a desire with anticipation," "to desire with expectation of obtainment," or "to expect with confidence" (http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hope). I have often thought, while waiting for another surgery to be completed, for my to son to master walking, for him to be able to eat on his own so that his g-tube could be removed, and countless other times, that there is a fine line between hope and denial or false thinking; tactics used as a coping mechanism. Is hope something genuine that I can, as a logical and intelligent person, truly believe in? What do we have if we don't have hope? Paul trusts in hope. He believes that hope is something God has given us - our God is a "God of hope." What encouragement during our darkest and most humbling moments - a prayer specifically for our hearts and souls. May God fill you today with all joy and peace.
Romans 15:4,13 "For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope….May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."
Hope - what is hope? Merriam-Webster defines it as, "to cherish a desire with anticipation," "to desire with expectation of obtainment," or "to expect with confidence" (http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hope). I have often thought, while waiting for another surgery to be completed, for my to son to master walking, for him to be able to eat on his own so that his g-tube could be removed, and countless other times, that there is a fine line between hope and denial or false thinking; tactics used as a coping mechanism. Is hope something genuine that I can, as a logical and intelligent person, truly believe in? What do we have if we don't have hope? Paul trusts in hope. He believes that hope is something God has given us - our God is a "God of hope." What encouragement during our darkest and most humbling moments - a prayer specifically for our hearts and souls. May God fill you today with all joy and peace.
G-tube in
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G-tube out!
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"If you have hope, you have everything."
Fuel for Friday...
Psalm 118:24 “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”
“These are great days.” – Winston Churchill This quote was originally taken from a speech Prime Minister Churchill gave when he visited the Harrow School on 29 October 1941. It came from a verse the students had added to one of the school songs in honor of the Prime Minister. Britain had been in the throes of World War II for over two years. The Nazis had invaded most of Europe including Denmark, Norway, the Netherlands, and France. Italy had declared war on Britain. It was not until 8 December 1941 after the Pearl Harbor attacks when the US declared war on Japan. Germany declared war against the U.S. three days later. Great Britain did not receive help via American ground forces until 26 January 1942…3 months after Winston Churchill had the optimism to declare that they were in the midst of “great days!”
I came across this quote on a magnet for sale at a Barnes & Noble bookstore near the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. After spending 22+ hours in my son’s hospital room, I took a brief reprieve to grab a shower and refresh myself for another night beside his crib. The magnet struck me as very true – I was living a great day. Yes, Austin was in the hospital…but he was stable. Yes, I was exhausted and achy after spending countless nights on a small plastic couch, but I also had respite – an hour’s nap in a cool, dark, hotel room. Yes, this was not the ideal situation, but God had been good to us and our son in spite of the difficult realities of life. There is always something good, even great, to be found, even if it is only that the much needed cup of coffee after a long night tastes good.
That memento now hangs on our refrigerator; a constant reminder that if I could feel and find hope and goodness during a difficult hospital day, I can face whatever life holds for me each day and rejoice that the Lord granted me another sunrise.
Psalm 118:24 “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”
“These are great days.” – Winston Churchill This quote was originally taken from a speech Prime Minister Churchill gave when he visited the Harrow School on 29 October 1941. It came from a verse the students had added to one of the school songs in honor of the Prime Minister. Britain had been in the throes of World War II for over two years. The Nazis had invaded most of Europe including Denmark, Norway, the Netherlands, and France. Italy had declared war on Britain. It was not until 8 December 1941 after the Pearl Harbor attacks when the US declared war on Japan. Germany declared war against the U.S. three days later. Great Britain did not receive help via American ground forces until 26 January 1942…3 months after Winston Churchill had the optimism to declare that they were in the midst of “great days!”
I came across this quote on a magnet for sale at a Barnes & Noble bookstore near the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. After spending 22+ hours in my son’s hospital room, I took a brief reprieve to grab a shower and refresh myself for another night beside his crib. The magnet struck me as very true – I was living a great day. Yes, Austin was in the hospital…but he was stable. Yes, I was exhausted and achy after spending countless nights on a small plastic couch, but I also had respite – an hour’s nap in a cool, dark, hotel room. Yes, this was not the ideal situation, but God had been good to us and our son in spite of the difficult realities of life. There is always something good, even great, to be found, even if it is only that the much needed cup of coffee after a long night tastes good.
That memento now hangs on our refrigerator; a constant reminder that if I could feel and find hope and goodness during a difficult hospital day, I can face whatever life holds for me each day and rejoice that the Lord granted me another sunrise.
WHEN GOD SAYS "NO"
FUEL FOR FRIDAY...
2 Corinthians 12:7-10 …there was given me a thorn in my flesh…Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
Wow! When he wrote these powerful words, Paul provided such a strong testimony of ultimate faith and trust in God even in the midst of extreme hardship. Many times I have asked God to take this health burden my baby (now seven year old) suffers from away from him…and away from us. I believe that although it would be an unheard of medical mystery and miracle, God can perform such healing. I also believe that we must ask in order to receive (1 John 5:14-15). So far God has told me no. Thankfully, this no always has a caveat; the fact that God is glorified in our situation, even if it is one we would not choose. And in that I find the strength to meet each new sunrise, fight another battle, and continue to pray for my son’s life and the grace to meet the challenge it poses with joy.
We are all a work in progress. One day I hope that I can, with 100% honesty, pray as the band Mercy Me sings, “And I know there'll be days when this life brings me pain, but if that's what it takes to praise You Jesus, bring the rain.” In the meantime, I rejoice in how far God has brought me in finding joy in all circumstances and look forward to further growth in Him. I have always found that he gives me just enough of His strength to make it through my day. If you find yourself more downtrodden than strengthened by the difficulties in this life, remember God’s strength will overcome all of this Earth’s weakness. Grab onto his words as a you would a life preserver when the ship beneath you is sinking and hold on for dear life. God may not keep the ship from sinking, but he will make sure you survive the storm!
Wow! When he wrote these powerful words, Paul provided such a strong testimony of ultimate faith and trust in God even in the midst of extreme hardship. Many times I have asked God to take this health burden my baby (now seven year old) suffers from away from him…and away from us. I believe that although it would be an unheard of medical mystery and miracle, God can perform such healing. I also believe that we must ask in order to receive (1 John 5:14-15). So far God has told me no. Thankfully, this no always has a caveat; the fact that God is glorified in our situation, even if it is one we would not choose. And in that I find the strength to meet each new sunrise, fight another battle, and continue to pray for my son’s life and the grace to meet the challenge it poses with joy.
We are all a work in progress. One day I hope that I can, with 100% honesty, pray as the band Mercy Me sings, “And I know there'll be days when this life brings me pain, but if that's what it takes to praise You Jesus, bring the rain.” In the meantime, I rejoice in how far God has brought me in finding joy in all circumstances and look forward to further growth in Him. I have always found that he gives me just enough of His strength to make it through my day. If you find yourself more downtrodden than strengthened by the difficulties in this life, remember God’s strength will overcome all of this Earth’s weakness. Grab onto his words as a you would a life preserver when the ship beneath you is sinking and hold on for dear life. God may not keep the ship from sinking, but he will make sure you survive the storm!
The Rock
Kodiak Island, Alaska. Mission Trip 2014
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Deuteronomy 32:4 “He is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he.”
When we come to grips with just how imperfect our world is, the human spirit is, and our human bodies are, it is then that the awesomeness of God’s perfection can be so clearly felt. This one verse has five phrases – each a golden nugget to cling to. “He is the Rock” – “The Hebrew word for "Rock" indicates firmness, stability, and faithfulness.”* Despite the rollercoaster of life, God is unchanging. He provides the one thing we can always count on when circumstances are out of our control. Even when we get mad at the challenges life has dealt us or mad at God for allowing our precious loved ones to suffer from sickness, disability, or death, he remains faithful in his love for us. “His works are perfect” – this world has standards; what we should look like, what we should wear, what we should be capable of doing, etc. God created each one of us, and his works are perfect, even if we are told they are not. When we first learned our baby had a heart defect, we were told it was extremely serious, and we could terminate the pregnancy. This life, according to the medical community, was not perfect and could be thrown away. But, Austin is God’s work and is therefore perfect. Don’t let the standards of this world cloud the perfection that God has created in each one of us. “All his ways are just.”- life is unfair. Sometimes it seems that life is fairer to others than to us. When our spirits are downtrodden remember that although we may not see it, we can trust that God is a just God and ultimately his ways will be revealed. The last sentence, “A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he” reaffirms the truths from the first sentence. God is ever-faithful, never-changing, always perfect, right and fair. We can trust in God. These qualities give us the confidence to believe in his ultimate good despite our current pain. * http://bibletools.org/index.cfm/fuseaction/Topical.show/RTD/cgg/ID/695/Rock-as-Symbol.htm |
