Sitting in a beach chair with my toes in the sand. Listening to the sounds of waves crashing onto the beach. Hearing the laughter of grandchildren.
Those are just a few of my favorite memories from last week.
Today it's back to reality. Instead of sand and waves, my day is filled with unpacking and laundry. This is the worst part of a vacation, in my opinion.
But not even the drudgery of laundry can dim the memories we made.
What a relaxing week it was. No particular agenda. No appointments that had to be kept. No chores to be done.
Just relaxing. Sitting on the beach with a book. Or on the porch. Taking a solitary walk down the beach on a cloudy morning. Walking on the beach with a grandson. Laughing. Talking. Making memories together.
What great fun it was!
Even as I'm unpacking and sorting laundry and putting things away, there's a smile on my face.
Relaxed. Refreshed.
The location was amazing. Oceanfront. Falling asleep each night to the sound of waves crashing onto the beach. Waking up to see the sun over the water.
But it wasn't just about the location. It was about the people.
It was smiles and giggles and belly laughs. It was conversation. It was together. It was family.
Family. One of life's greatest blessings.
The vacation is over. But the memories will last a lifetime.
More happy than my heart can hold.
"Bless the LORD, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name." (Psalm 103:1 ESV)
Monday, June 30, 2014
Friday, June 20, 2014
I Need Your Help!
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This beautiful mountain house, our home for the last eight years, is for sale. We have found our new home in our new location, but can't move forward with that until we sell this house.
I'm asking you to help us. Spread the word. To your family and friends. To your realtor friends. To your social network.
There is someone out there for whom this is the perfect house.
Maybe they are looking for a vacation retreat. Or for a summertime escape from the heat. Or for the serenity of year-round mountain living. This is perfect. For any or all of those scenarios!
Crafted from lumber harvested and milled right on this mountain, and located in the beautiful mountains of western North Carolina, this home is convenient to both the Pisgah National Forest and the Cherokee National Forest. Fishing, rafting, and skiing nearby. Easy driving distance to the Blue Ridge Parkway and Mt. Mitchell. Located just outside Burnsville, NC, home of the annual Mt. Mitchell Craft Fair, and just forty miles from Asheville.
For more information, you can leave a comment below, or e-mail me at susanfeast@aol.com and I'll give you all the details. Or you can go to the listing page and contact the realtor directly by clicking on this link: http://www.blueridgeproperties.net/default.asp?content=expanded&search_content=results&this_format=1&mls_number=27062&page=1&query_id=143988994&sortby=2
Who do you know that is looking for a mountain retreat? This could be just the place!
Thursday, June 19, 2014
A Light Bulb Moment
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all your understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6-7 ESV)
I was reading this verse yesterday. Pondering it. And I had a light bulb moment. You know what I mean. That moment when what you read really clicks.
I have read and quoted this verse hundreds of times. Perhaps even thousands of times.
I have rattled through this verse many times, but yesterday I was stopped in my tracks by this verse.
The verse tells us not to be anxious about anything. It tells us to pray about everything.
Never once does it say anything about the answer to our prayers.
It does say that when we stop worrying and when we pray about everything, the peace of God will guard our hearts and minds.
It does not say that when our prayers are answered, then we will be at peace.
It does say that when we bring all our concerns to God, then His peace surrounds us and guards our hearts and minds.
The answer, in a sense, is irrelevant. The act of praying, of bringing all our concerns to God, is what brings us peace.
The answer to the request becomes a bonus. The blessing is in the praying.
Light bulb moment!
I was reading this verse yesterday. Pondering it. And I had a light bulb moment. You know what I mean. That moment when what you read really clicks.
I have read and quoted this verse hundreds of times. Perhaps even thousands of times.
I have rattled through this verse many times, but yesterday I was stopped in my tracks by this verse.
The verse tells us not to be anxious about anything. It tells us to pray about everything.
Never once does it say anything about the answer to our prayers.
It does say that when we stop worrying and when we pray about everything, the peace of God will guard our hearts and minds.
It does not say that when our prayers are answered, then we will be at peace.
It does say that when we bring all our concerns to God, then His peace surrounds us and guards our hearts and minds.
The answer, in a sense, is irrelevant. The act of praying, of bringing all our concerns to God, is what brings us peace.
The answer to the request becomes a bonus. The blessing is in the praying.
Light bulb moment!
Oh, what peace we often forfeit,
Oh, what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry
Everything to God in prayer!
from "What a Friend We have in Jesus"
words: Joseph Scriven; music: Charles C. Converse
Wednesday, June 18, 2014
It's About The Process
Sometimes my impatience gets the better of me. The I-want-what-I-want-and-I-want-it-right-now side takes over.
Can you relate?
We aren't surprised when we see that sort of behavior in our children. In fact, we rather expect it. We sometimes even (at least inwardly) think their determination to get what they want is sort of cute.
It isn't nearly as cute on those of us who left childhood behind long ago. Even so, our impatient side often rears its ugly head.
When we don't get what we want. When our prayers aren't being answered according to our timetable. When we have to wait.
There are any number of circumstances that send us into impatient mode.
In my case, it's the waiting for a buyer for our house, coupled with trying to make the right decision about the next house.
That has sent me into frustration overdrive! Which has led to stress. Which has led to physical consequences, since RA doesn't respond well to stress.
This morning has brought me a different outlook on the entire situation. Lately I've been working my way through Cynthia Heald's devotional study Becoming a Woman of Prayer. In this morning's chapter, Heald shared this quote from Andrew Murray (emphasis mine).
"The blessing of such persevering prayer is unspeakable. There is nothing so heart-searching as the prayer of faith. It teaches you to discover and confess, and give up everything that hinders the coming of the blessing; everything there may be not in accordance with the Father's will. It leads to closer fellowship with Him who alone can teach to pray, to a more entire surrender to draw nigh under no covering but that of the blood, and the Spirit. It calls to a closer and more simple abiding in Christ alone. Christian! Give God time. He will perfect that which concerneth you."
Give God time. Which is, of course, the very thing I haven't been giving Him. I have been very much in impatient, do-it-now mode.
From the beginning of this process I have prayed that the house would sell in a way that brings God glory. It occurs to me this morning that perhaps it is His intention not to be glorified by selling the house in some speedy, miraculous sort of way, but rather that He seeks to work in me through this process. That what He is teaching me through the process will bring Him more glory than some quick, and then soon forgotten, house sale.
As I have often said throughout this process, this is not how I would do it! But, as I have also often said, God is God and I am not!
So, today I am learning. And as Cynthia Heald points out in her book, "Both the process and the answer are worthy of praise."
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6-7 ESV)
"Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly than all we ask or think according to the power at work within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations forever. Amen." (Ephesians 3:20 ESV)
Can you relate?
We aren't surprised when we see that sort of behavior in our children. In fact, we rather expect it. We sometimes even (at least inwardly) think their determination to get what they want is sort of cute.
It isn't nearly as cute on those of us who left childhood behind long ago. Even so, our impatient side often rears its ugly head.
When we don't get what we want. When our prayers aren't being answered according to our timetable. When we have to wait.
There are any number of circumstances that send us into impatient mode.
In my case, it's the waiting for a buyer for our house, coupled with trying to make the right decision about the next house.
That has sent me into frustration overdrive! Which has led to stress. Which has led to physical consequences, since RA doesn't respond well to stress.
This morning has brought me a different outlook on the entire situation. Lately I've been working my way through Cynthia Heald's devotional study Becoming a Woman of Prayer. In this morning's chapter, Heald shared this quote from Andrew Murray (emphasis mine).
"The blessing of such persevering prayer is unspeakable. There is nothing so heart-searching as the prayer of faith. It teaches you to discover and confess, and give up everything that hinders the coming of the blessing; everything there may be not in accordance with the Father's will. It leads to closer fellowship with Him who alone can teach to pray, to a more entire surrender to draw nigh under no covering but that of the blood, and the Spirit. It calls to a closer and more simple abiding in Christ alone. Christian! Give God time. He will perfect that which concerneth you."
Give God time. Which is, of course, the very thing I haven't been giving Him. I have been very much in impatient, do-it-now mode.
From the beginning of this process I have prayed that the house would sell in a way that brings God glory. It occurs to me this morning that perhaps it is His intention not to be glorified by selling the house in some speedy, miraculous sort of way, but rather that He seeks to work in me through this process. That what He is teaching me through the process will bring Him more glory than some quick, and then soon forgotten, house sale.
As I have often said throughout this process, this is not how I would do it! But, as I have also often said, God is God and I am not!
So, today I am learning. And as Cynthia Heald points out in her book, "Both the process and the answer are worthy of praise."
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6-7 ESV)
"Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly than all we ask or think according to the power at work within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations forever. Amen." (Ephesians 3:20 ESV)
Tuesday, June 17, 2014
When You Just Don't Know
God, I don't even know how to pray about the situation in Iraq, but tonight I am lifting it to You! - Kay Arthur's Facebook post, June 16, 2014
That pretty much sums up my feelings. About the situation in Iraq. And about so many other situations as well.
Sometimes we just don't know what or how to pray, do we?
Sometimes circumstances are just too overwhelming. Or too confusing. Or too difficult to understand.
And we just don't know.
Many years ago I was part of a Bible study group discussing this very topic. In the years since, I have often recalled our leader's words. When you don't know how to pray, just ask that all the will of God be accomplished in and through whatever the situation is.
Good advice. Thank you, Margaret.
So for Iraq. And for persecuted Christians throughout the world. For strained relationships. And for all the other situations that confuse or distress or disturb us.
For all the times we can't understand what God is doing. Or why He hasn't responded in the way we expected He would. Or when we can't seem to see His hand at work.
For all the times we just don't understand.
For all the times we are too overwhelmed.
And confused.
For all the times when the pain, whether physical or emotional, is just too great to bear.
For all those times.
And more.
We pray Thy will be done.
That pretty much sums up my feelings. About the situation in Iraq. And about so many other situations as well.
Sometimes we just don't know what or how to pray, do we?
Sometimes circumstances are just too overwhelming. Or too confusing. Or too difficult to understand.
And we just don't know.
Many years ago I was part of a Bible study group discussing this very topic. In the years since, I have often recalled our leader's words. When you don't know how to pray, just ask that all the will of God be accomplished in and through whatever the situation is.
Good advice. Thank you, Margaret.
So for Iraq. And for persecuted Christians throughout the world. For strained relationships. And for all the other situations that confuse or distress or disturb us.
For all the times we can't understand what God is doing. Or why He hasn't responded in the way we expected He would. Or when we can't seem to see His hand at work.
For all the times we just don't understand.
For all the times we are too overwhelmed.
And confused.
For all the times when the pain, whether physical or emotional, is just too great to bear.
For all those times.
And more.
We pray Thy will be done.
"Pray then, like this:
Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name.
Your kingdom come.
Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven."
(Matthew 6:9-10 ESV)
Monday, June 16, 2014
Today I Will.....
Today, in the middle of stress and uncertainty and frustration and pain.......
I will remember:
The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. (Lamentations 3:22-23 ESV)
You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you. (Isaiah 26:3 ESV)
The word of the LORD proves true; he is a shield for all those who take refuge in him. (Psalm 18:30 ESV)
You, O LORD, are a shield about me, my glory and the lifter of my head. (Psalm 3:3 ESV)
Today, in the middle of stress and uncertainty and frustration and pain.......
I will trust:
Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. (Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV)
Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock. (Isaiah 26:4 ESV)
Today, in the middle of stress and uncertainty and frustration and pain......
I will give thanks.
Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever! (1 Chronicles 16:34 ESV)
I will give thanks to the LORD with my whole heart; I will recount all of your wonderful deeds. (Psalm 9:1 ESV)
Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. (1 Thessalonians 5:18 ESV)
Today, in the middle of stress and uncertainty and frustration and pain.......
I will praise God!
I will bless the LORD at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth. Oh, magnify the LORD with me and let us exalt his name together. (Psalm 34:1,3 ESV)
I will remember:
The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. (Lamentations 3:22-23 ESV)
You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you. (Isaiah 26:3 ESV)
The word of the LORD proves true; he is a shield for all those who take refuge in him. (Psalm 18:30 ESV)
You, O LORD, are a shield about me, my glory and the lifter of my head. (Psalm 3:3 ESV)
Today, in the middle of stress and uncertainty and frustration and pain.......
I will trust:
Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. (Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV)
Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock. (Isaiah 26:4 ESV)
Today, in the middle of stress and uncertainty and frustration and pain......
I will give thanks.
Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever! (1 Chronicles 16:34 ESV)
I will give thanks to the LORD with my whole heart; I will recount all of your wonderful deeds. (Psalm 9:1 ESV)
Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. (1 Thessalonians 5:18 ESV)
Today, in the middle of stress and uncertainty and frustration and pain.......
I will praise God!
I will bless the LORD at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth. Oh, magnify the LORD with me and let us exalt his name together. (Psalm 34:1,3 ESV)
Friday, June 13, 2014
Last Words
Anniversary week continues. Tuesday was our 42nd wedding anniversary. Today marks another anniversary. On this date, five years ago, I got the phone call.
It's hard to believe that five years have passed since Daddy died. On that Saturday morning, life was normal. And then it wasn't.
Brandon, Stephanie, and AJ were here for the weekend. We were making plans for our day. Then the phone rang and all our plans were changed. And the hardest part of it all was that I didn't get to say goodbye.
If Daddy and I could have had one final conversation, I wonder what he might have said. If you knew you were leaving this world, what would you say to those you love most?
We didn't get to have that conversation. And so I remember previous conversations we had.
He often would say He that tooteth not his own horn heareth not the sound thereof. He always said that with a twinkle in his eye!
When talking about money, he would say things like You need to diminish your wants or augment your means. Or he would say You're old enough for your wants not to hurt you.
He said things like Top 'o the mornin' to ya! and Can't never could!
He loved to talk about baseball and poetry and politics. And he loved to tell jokes. Oh, how he loved to tell jokes!
When I got to Daddy's house on that Saturday afternoon after "the phone call", I found his Bible and devotional book open to the passage he had read the previous morning, before the heart attack took his life.
There's a sense in which these are Daddy's final words to me. And to my brother. Because, in his own words, I believe this is what Daddy would have said to us if he had known he was leaving that day. This is how he lived, and this is how he wanted us to live too.
"If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God." (Colossians 3:1-3 KJV)
Thursday, June 12, 2014
My Best Friend
Do you ever get a song stuck in your head? I have one this morning. It's a song about a friend. And as I keep singing it over and over, I also have random thoughts about friendship running through my brain. So I thought I would share.
One thought is that a friend is someone who listens. Who really pays attention. Who actually hears what you are saying. And knows what you mean, even if you don't express it well.
A friend is someone who will tell you the truth, not just tell you what they think you want to hear. Sometimes words aren't even necessary! As an example, going shopping with my friend Jean H. She sometimes gets that look on her face that says "I don't care what that Chico's lady says......don't buy that!!". Or the look that says "Have you lost your mind??!!" Do you know what I mean?
Another example takes me back to my "music minister" days. Often I would get an idea......especially around time for Christmas or Easter musicals......one of those ideas that I thought was absolutely fabulous and would make ALL the difference in the production! Those times when my creative side got a little carried away!! And my sweet husband (also my very best friend!) would calmly say things like.......you might want to think about that one some more. Or....are you really sure that's what you want? Or....I don't think that will work and this is why. More often than not, he was right.......and I was really glad he told me the truth instead of just going along with my idea. Of course, every now and then, I had a really good idea......and he was completely supportive!
A friend is someone who laughs with you......not "at" you. Who will reason through a "sticky" situation with you. Who will cry with you. Who knows just when you need a hug. And is more than willing to give one....or more!
We hear a lot these days about BFFs........those special people who will share lunch.......and shopping.....and chocolate......and pie......and ice cream......and strawberry pancakes!! You know who you are! Who share the love of good music, or a good book, or all things Jane Austen.
But back to that song in my head. It's a little song I learned long ago.....and sang often as a child....at the First Baptist Church in Landrum, SC. Maybe you know it, too. If you do, sing along with me!
One thought is that a friend is someone who listens. Who really pays attention. Who actually hears what you are saying. And knows what you mean, even if you don't express it well.
A friend is someone who will tell you the truth, not just tell you what they think you want to hear. Sometimes words aren't even necessary! As an example, going shopping with my friend Jean H. She sometimes gets that look on her face that says "I don't care what that Chico's lady says......don't buy that!!". Or the look that says "Have you lost your mind??!!" Do you know what I mean?
Another example takes me back to my "music minister" days. Often I would get an idea......especially around time for Christmas or Easter musicals......one of those ideas that I thought was absolutely fabulous and would make ALL the difference in the production! Those times when my creative side got a little carried away!! And my sweet husband (also my very best friend!) would calmly say things like.......you might want to think about that one some more. Or....are you really sure that's what you want? Or....I don't think that will work and this is why. More often than not, he was right.......and I was really glad he told me the truth instead of just going along with my idea. Of course, every now and then, I had a really good idea......and he was completely supportive!
A friend is someone who laughs with you......not "at" you. Who will reason through a "sticky" situation with you. Who will cry with you. Who knows just when you need a hug. And is more than willing to give one....or more!
We hear a lot these days about BFFs........those special people who will share lunch.......and shopping.....and chocolate......and pie......and ice cream......and strawberry pancakes!! You know who you are! Who share the love of good music, or a good book, or all things Jane Austen.
But back to that song in my head. It's a little song I learned long ago.....and sang often as a child....at the First Baptist Church in Landrum, SC. Maybe you know it, too. If you do, sing along with me!
My best friend is Jesus.......love Him, love Him.
My best friend is Jesus.....love Him!
Wednesday, June 11, 2014
Seeing the Big Picture
Yesterday Al and I celebrated a milestone - 42 years of marriage. Of course, as has often been the case over these years of our marriage, we're on opposite coasts, but it was still a day of celebration!
Our anniversary was a time a celebration, but sometimes anniversaries aren't such joyous events. This month marks an anniversary for a dear friend of mine, the fourth year since her husband lost his battle with cancer and went to be with the Lord. And she is on my mind this morning.
As I have been thinking of that sweet friend, I remember something she once told me her husband always used to say, throughout his cancer battle and even before. That God sees the big picture and we don't.
That's an important truth for us to remember. God sees the big picture, and we don't.
Often we're tempted to question God. And really, there is much we could find to question. When we receive a serious medical diagnosis. When those we love are battling cancer and other serious illnesses. Financial challenges.....and depression.....and bereavement. When we have prayed and the answer doesn't come when or how we expected it would. When we have prayed and it seems the answer isn't coming at all.
There's a lot of "stuff" we have to deal with in this life. Through it all, it helps to remember that God sees the big picture. To remember that God knows what He is doing. That God is in control. That God is sovereign.
To remember. And to trust Him.
Because He sees the big picture.
And we don't.
"Remember this and stand firm, recall it to mind......for I am God, and there is no other; I am God and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying 'My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose,' for I have spoken, and I will bring it to pass; I have purposed and I will do it." (Isaiah 46:8-11 ESV)
Our anniversary was a time a celebration, but sometimes anniversaries aren't such joyous events. This month marks an anniversary for a dear friend of mine, the fourth year since her husband lost his battle with cancer and went to be with the Lord. And she is on my mind this morning.
As I have been thinking of that sweet friend, I remember something she once told me her husband always used to say, throughout his cancer battle and even before. That God sees the big picture and we don't.
That's an important truth for us to remember. God sees the big picture, and we don't.
Often we're tempted to question God. And really, there is much we could find to question. When we receive a serious medical diagnosis. When those we love are battling cancer and other serious illnesses. Financial challenges.....and depression.....and bereavement. When we have prayed and the answer doesn't come when or how we expected it would. When we have prayed and it seems the answer isn't coming at all.
There's a lot of "stuff" we have to deal with in this life. Through it all, it helps to remember that God sees the big picture. To remember that God knows what He is doing. That God is in control. That God is sovereign.
To remember. And to trust Him.
Because He sees the big picture.
And we don't.
"Remember this and stand firm, recall it to mind......for I am God, and there is no other; I am God and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying 'My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose,' for I have spoken, and I will bring it to pass; I have purposed and I will do it." (Isaiah 46:8-11 ESV)
Tuesday, June 10, 2014
We've Only Just Begun
It was a beautiful summer day, not too hot. There had been a shower of rain late in the morning, just enough for things to be refreshed.
The ceremony was held at eight o'clock in the evening, just the right time of day to get the right amount of evening sun through the stained glass windows of the church.
The church was full of family and friends. The music was perfect. There were flowers. And candles.
So began our life together as husband and wife.
There was a reception following the ceremony. A simple affair with punch and cake, held in the church fellowship hall.
Afterward, we drove away from the church listening to the Carpenters singing We've Only Just Begun.
That was our song then. It is our song today.
On June 10, 1972, we began our journey through life together as husband and wife. Neither of us had any idea what a journey it would be!
Who knew back then that we would live in six different states, at eighteen different addresses? Who knew that we would travel together all over the world? Who knew all the mountaintops and valleys, smooth roads and potholes, all the adventures this journey would hold for us?
As my father-in-law often says......God knows. He knew exactly what He had planned for us, even though we had no idea. This has been quite a journey. And the journey continues. We've only just begun!
I had no idea that all this would be part of my life journey, but I wouldn't have wanted to do life with anyone else. And I would do it all again!
Happy Anniversary, sweetheart! I love you more!
The ceremony was held at eight o'clock in the evening, just the right time of day to get the right amount of evening sun through the stained glass windows of the church.
The church was full of family and friends. The music was perfect. There were flowers. And candles.
So began our life together as husband and wife.
There was a reception following the ceremony. A simple affair with punch and cake, held in the church fellowship hall.
Afterward, we drove away from the church listening to the Carpenters singing We've Only Just Begun.
That was our song then. It is our song today.
On June 10, 1972, we began our journey through life together as husband and wife. Neither of us had any idea what a journey it would be!
Who knew back then that we would live in six different states, at eighteen different addresses? Who knew that we would travel together all over the world? Who knew all the mountaintops and valleys, smooth roads and potholes, all the adventures this journey would hold for us?
As my father-in-law often says......God knows. He knew exactly what He had planned for us, even though we had no idea. This has been quite a journey. And the journey continues. We've only just begun!
I had no idea that all this would be part of my life journey, but I wouldn't have wanted to do life with anyone else. And I would do it all again!
Happy Anniversary, sweetheart! I love you more!
Monday, June 9, 2014
A Day of Reunions
We were in Costco, somewhere between laundry detergent and fabric softener, when we heard our names.
Al. Susan.
We both glanced around and saw no one we recognized, so we kept walking. Then we heard it again.
Al. Susan.
When we turned around, we saw the same couple we had seen behind us a few minutes before. Neither of us recognized them. And I wondered who they were and why they were following us. Were we being stalked in Costco? And by people who knew our names?
Then the young man said You don't recognize me, do you? When we admitted we didn't, he told us his name. Michael Whitener. From all those years ago in our youth group back at Trinity Baptist Church in Cayce, long before we had ever left South Carolina to begin our journey around the country.
Once he identified himself and began talking, he was a stranger no more. Then I could see him as the grown-up Michael, this young man I hadn't seen since he was in college. He introduced his wife. There were hugs and laughter and everybody talking at once for at least thirty minutes. It was a grand reunion!
Once the shopping was done and we were back in the car on the way home, I became aware of another reunion that took place yesterday.
My aunt, Anne Thomas Neil, left this world and entered heaven yesterday morning. A grand and glorious reunion indeed. Now in the presence of the One she loved and served so faithfully and so well in this life, and reunited with her beloved husband and family members. I can only imagine the joy!
But even as there was joy in Heaven yesterday, there is a big hole left on earth by her passing. There's a numbness and sadness among those closest to her that only time will heal.
I hadn't seen Aunt Anne in many years, but I have wonderful memories. One of my favorite things about her was the way she loved and encouraged my daddy as he cared for my mother during the last years of her life. Being a full-time caregiver is hard, and Aunt Anne frequently called and sent notes to Daddy to encourage him. That continued even after Mother's passing, for the rest of Daddy's life. A handwritten note is a lost art form in our high-tech world, but one Aunt Anne had mastered well.
She was a giant among women. (And not just because she was tall and I am not!) A woman of great influence. Her light shined brightly in her years of missionary service in Africa. And continued to shine brightly in the years since. As a trailblazer. As an encourager and mentor to many. As a mom and a meemaw. She will be missed, but her influence lives on.
Anne Thomas Neil received many accolades in this life. But the greatest accolade of all was awarded her yesterday, when she entered Heaven and heard these words:
"Well done, thou good and faithful servant.......enter thou into the joy of thy Lord." (Matthew 25:21 KJV)
Al. Susan.
We both glanced around and saw no one we recognized, so we kept walking. Then we heard it again.
Al. Susan.
When we turned around, we saw the same couple we had seen behind us a few minutes before. Neither of us recognized them. And I wondered who they were and why they were following us. Were we being stalked in Costco? And by people who knew our names?
Then the young man said You don't recognize me, do you? When we admitted we didn't, he told us his name. Michael Whitener. From all those years ago in our youth group back at Trinity Baptist Church in Cayce, long before we had ever left South Carolina to begin our journey around the country.
Once he identified himself and began talking, he was a stranger no more. Then I could see him as the grown-up Michael, this young man I hadn't seen since he was in college. He introduced his wife. There were hugs and laughter and everybody talking at once for at least thirty minutes. It was a grand reunion!
Once the shopping was done and we were back in the car on the way home, I became aware of another reunion that took place yesterday.
My aunt, Anne Thomas Neil, left this world and entered heaven yesterday morning. A grand and glorious reunion indeed. Now in the presence of the One she loved and served so faithfully and so well in this life, and reunited with her beloved husband and family members. I can only imagine the joy!
But even as there was joy in Heaven yesterday, there is a big hole left on earth by her passing. There's a numbness and sadness among those closest to her that only time will heal.
I hadn't seen Aunt Anne in many years, but I have wonderful memories. One of my favorite things about her was the way she loved and encouraged my daddy as he cared for my mother during the last years of her life. Being a full-time caregiver is hard, and Aunt Anne frequently called and sent notes to Daddy to encourage him. That continued even after Mother's passing, for the rest of Daddy's life. A handwritten note is a lost art form in our high-tech world, but one Aunt Anne had mastered well.
She was a giant among women. (And not just because she was tall and I am not!) A woman of great influence. Her light shined brightly in her years of missionary service in Africa. And continued to shine brightly in the years since. As a trailblazer. As an encourager and mentor to many. As a mom and a meemaw. She will be missed, but her influence lives on.
Anne Thomas Neil received many accolades in this life. But the greatest accolade of all was awarded her yesterday, when she entered Heaven and heard these words:
"Well done, thou good and faithful servant.......enter thou into the joy of thy Lord." (Matthew 25:21 KJV)
Saturday, June 7, 2014
Because Sometimes We Need Reminding
It's a very quiet morning here on this mountaintop. The only sound I hear is the sound of birds singing.
Al is on mission in Kentucky with some men from our church, and will return home later today. Until then it's just me and Molly. And she has gone back to bed!
This morning I poured my coffee, picked up my Bible, and settled into my comfy chair for my morning Bible reading. I have been following a reading plan from the youversion.com Bible app on my phone. I began with the "verse of the day".
Today's verse comes from 2 Timothy 3:16-17: "All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work."
After I had read that verse, I checked to see what today's reading would be. Yesterday I had finished the book of Ecclesiastes, so I was feeling pretty certain that meant I would begin Song of Solomon today. And sure enough, four chapters of the dreaded Song of Solomon was the day's reading. I groaned.
You see, I really don't like reading Song of Solomon. If I'm going to be honest, I must confess that I hate reading Song of Solomon. I can't understand its purpose. I don't know why it's in there.
Then I remembered the verse I began with. All Scripture is inspired by God. All Scripture is profitable. All means all. Even Song of Solomon.
I had to stop right then and confess my attitude. To thank God for sending me this reminder. And to ask Him to help me understand what I'm supposed to be learning from reading this particular portion of Scripture!
Yesterday I had another reminder, one of a different sort. We're still waiting for our house to sell, and I confess that my waiting is not always of the patient variety! I'm still very much a work in progress as I am learning to wait. Some days I'm a much better "waiter" than I am other days. Yesterday was not one of my better days. And then I read this Facebook status from one of my friends:
"If you are anxious or in a hurry to make something happen, then it is impossible to be waiting on God. His timing is perfect and He knows everything about everything. I think He can be trusted." (Dr. Jill Branyon)
Thank you, Jill, for that reminder! Thank You, God, for using Jill to deliver Your message to me yesterday. Thank You for bringing it to my heart again this morning.
Lord, how I thank You for sending these much needed reminders to encourage me. Thank You that You are continuing to teach me what it means to wait on You. Thank You that Your timing is always perfect and I can trust You. Thank You that You are working all things together, including the timing of selling this house, for my good and Your glory. I love You, Lord. Amen.
Al is on mission in Kentucky with some men from our church, and will return home later today. Until then it's just me and Molly. And she has gone back to bed!
This morning I poured my coffee, picked up my Bible, and settled into my comfy chair for my morning Bible reading. I have been following a reading plan from the youversion.com Bible app on my phone. I began with the "verse of the day".
Today's verse comes from 2 Timothy 3:16-17: "All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work."
After I had read that verse, I checked to see what today's reading would be. Yesterday I had finished the book of Ecclesiastes, so I was feeling pretty certain that meant I would begin Song of Solomon today. And sure enough, four chapters of the dreaded Song of Solomon was the day's reading. I groaned.
You see, I really don't like reading Song of Solomon. If I'm going to be honest, I must confess that I hate reading Song of Solomon. I can't understand its purpose. I don't know why it's in there.
Then I remembered the verse I began with. All Scripture is inspired by God. All Scripture is profitable. All means all. Even Song of Solomon.
I had to stop right then and confess my attitude. To thank God for sending me this reminder. And to ask Him to help me understand what I'm supposed to be learning from reading this particular portion of Scripture!
Yesterday I had another reminder, one of a different sort. We're still waiting for our house to sell, and I confess that my waiting is not always of the patient variety! I'm still very much a work in progress as I am learning to wait. Some days I'm a much better "waiter" than I am other days. Yesterday was not one of my better days. And then I read this Facebook status from one of my friends:
"If you are anxious or in a hurry to make something happen, then it is impossible to be waiting on God. His timing is perfect and He knows everything about everything. I think He can be trusted." (Dr. Jill Branyon)
Thank you, Jill, for that reminder! Thank You, God, for using Jill to deliver Your message to me yesterday. Thank You for bringing it to my heart again this morning.
Lord, how I thank You for sending these much needed reminders to encourage me. Thank You that You are continuing to teach me what it means to wait on You. Thank You that Your timing is always perfect and I can trust You. Thank You that You are working all things together, including the timing of selling this house, for my good and Your glory. I love You, Lord. Amen.
Friday, June 6, 2014
Thinking About Clouds
One of the things that has fascinated me about living here in the mountains is the view from our front porch. More specifically, it's the clouds that fascinate me. They are sometimes high in the sky over the mountains in the distance; sometimes they settle in the valley below us. It varies from day to day. Sometimes from hour to hour.
A couple of weeks ago, I began photographing the view each morning. At about the same time each day, and standing in roughly the same spot, I take a picture. Sometimes it looks like this:
Sometimes more like this:
A couple of weeks ago, I began photographing the view each morning. At about the same time each day, and standing in roughly the same spot, I take a picture. Sometimes it looks like this:
Sometimes more like this:
And because we've been experiencing some particularly cloudy mornings lately, sometimes it looks like this:
As I've been observing this ever-changing view, I've been thinking a lot about clouds. And that has led me to see what the Bible might have to say on that subject.
Clouds often obscure the view, which reminded me of this verse: "now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face." (1 Corinthians 13:12 NASB).
As I watch the clouds hovering over the valley, I'm reminded of the Hebrew people as they wandered in the Sinai wilderness. "The LORD was going before them in a pillar of cloud by day to lead them on the way." (Exodus 13:21 NASB). When you think about clouds as a symbol of the Lord's presence, you don't mind cloudy days nearly so much!
Searching through the Psalms led me to this passage: "For your steadfast love is great to the heavens, your faithfulness to the clouds. Be exalted, O God, above the heavens! Let your glory be over all the earth." (Psalm 57:10-11 ESV)
But of all the verses I discovered, this may be my favorite:
"Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him, even those who pierced Him; and all the tribes of the earth will mourn over Him. So it is to be. Amen." (Revelation 1:7 NASB)
Think about that next time you see a cloud!
Thursday, June 5, 2014
Even on a Cloudy Day
To many this is Throwback Thursday. For me, this is Thankful Thursday. It's a cloudy morning on this mountaintop; even so, there are many reasons to be thankful.
I'm thankful for the clouds which bring with them the promise of some much-needed rain.
On this dreary morning, I'm especially thankful for coffee.
For a good night of rest.
For a precious time with the Lord this morning.
As we approach the date of our wedding anniversary, I'm thankful for the wonderful man I married, and for all the years we have had together.
And as the anniversary of my daddy's passing is also approaching, I'm so thankful for him and for the legacy of faith he left behind.
I'm thankful for my family and so looking forward to our beach vacation in just a couple of weeks.
I'm thankful for the beauty I see out the front window every morning. And every evening. And all day in between!
Thankful for friends. For encouragers. For Facebook that keeps us in touch when we don't see each other often.
I'm thankful for the Bible. For the truths I read there. For the way it speaks to my soul.
I'm thankful that "He who began a good work in [me] will be faithful to complete it. (Philippians 1:6)
I'm thankful that "there is no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus." (Romans 8:1)
I'm thankful that "I am blessed with every spiritual blessing and sealed with the Holy Spirit." (Ephesians 1)
I am thankful that God is working all things together for my good and for His glory. (Romans 8:28)
There really are a lot of reasons for thanksgiving. Even on a cloudy day.
I'm thankful for the clouds which bring with them the promise of some much-needed rain.
On this dreary morning, I'm especially thankful for coffee.
For a good night of rest.
For a precious time with the Lord this morning.
As we approach the date of our wedding anniversary, I'm thankful for the wonderful man I married, and for all the years we have had together.
And as the anniversary of my daddy's passing is also approaching, I'm so thankful for him and for the legacy of faith he left behind.
I'm thankful for my family and so looking forward to our beach vacation in just a couple of weeks.
I'm thankful for the beauty I see out the front window every morning. And every evening. And all day in between!
Thankful for friends. For encouragers. For Facebook that keeps us in touch when we don't see each other often.
I'm thankful for the Bible. For the truths I read there. For the way it speaks to my soul.
I'm thankful that "He who began a good work in [me] will be faithful to complete it. (Philippians 1:6)
I'm thankful that "there is no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus." (Romans 8:1)
I'm thankful that "I am blessed with every spiritual blessing and sealed with the Holy Spirit." (Ephesians 1)
I am thankful that God is working all things together for my good and for His glory. (Romans 8:28)
There really are a lot of reasons for thanksgiving. Even on a cloudy day.
Wednesday, June 4, 2014
With Many Crowns
My day began with another trip over the river and through the woods, this time to the dentist's office. I was getting a new crown this morning.
Going to the dentist is one of my least favorite things to do. I don't even like to go for a teeth cleaning. And I particularly do not like going to get a crown. This isn't a new experience. I've done this before. Lots of times. My mouth is full of many crowns!
Because I dislike my time in the dentist's chair so much, I have to think of things with which to occupy my mind while I'm there. Sometimes I review Scripture verses that I have committed to memory. I do this silently, of course, since even if I wanted to recite them aloud that would be impossible with all the stuff that's in my mouth while I'm sitting in that chair.
There's no pain, beyond the initial prick of the needle to give the first novocaine injection. But there's the pressure of hands and instruments in my mouth. There's the discomfort of holding my mouth open for such a long period of time. This morning, since the crown was going on an upper molar, my mouth had to be open as wide as possible, and that's just uncomfortable. And the noise! The sound of a dentist's drill has to be one of my least favorite sounds ever!
So this morning, I had to find something to occupy my mind. And I almost laughed out loud (or would have if all that stuff hadn't been in my mouth!) when my mind went to a praise song we used to sing about twenty years ago.........You are crowned with many crowns......Please don't think me disrespectful, but that did seem like a good theme song for me!!!!
I sang that one through a couple of times in my mind......
Going to the dentist is one of my least favorite things to do. I don't even like to go for a teeth cleaning. And I particularly do not like going to get a crown. This isn't a new experience. I've done this before. Lots of times. My mouth is full of many crowns!
Because I dislike my time in the dentist's chair so much, I have to think of things with which to occupy my mind while I'm there. Sometimes I review Scripture verses that I have committed to memory. I do this silently, of course, since even if I wanted to recite them aloud that would be impossible with all the stuff that's in my mouth while I'm sitting in that chair.
There's no pain, beyond the initial prick of the needle to give the first novocaine injection. But there's the pressure of hands and instruments in my mouth. There's the discomfort of holding my mouth open for such a long period of time. This morning, since the crown was going on an upper molar, my mouth had to be open as wide as possible, and that's just uncomfortable. And the noise! The sound of a dentist's drill has to be one of my least favorite sounds ever!
So this morning, I had to find something to occupy my mind. And I almost laughed out loud (or would have if all that stuff hadn't been in my mouth!) when my mind went to a praise song we used to sing about twenty years ago.........You are crowned with many crowns......Please don't think me disrespectful, but that did seem like a good theme song for me!!!!
I sang that one through a couple of times in my mind......
You are crowned with many crowns,
And rule all things with righteousness.......
And then my mind went directly to my favorite of all my favorite hymns.......
Crown him with many crowns,
The Lamb upon his throne;
Hark! how the heavenly anthem drowns
All music but its own:
Awake, my soul, and sing
Of him who died for thee,
And hail him as thy matchless King
Through all eternity.
The Lamb upon his throne;
Hark! how the heavenly anthem drowns
All music but its own:
Awake, my soul, and sing
Of him who died for thee,
And hail him as thy matchless King
Through all eternity.
(Bridges/Elvey)
I can't think of any better way to occupy my mind than to focus on Christ! Who says you can't worship in a dentist's chair?
"The twenty-four elders fall down before him who is seated on the throne and worship him who lives forever and ever. They cast their crowns before the throne, saying 'Worthy are you, our Lord and our God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created.'" (Revelation 4:10-11 ESV)
Tuesday, June 3, 2014
A Homework Assignment
On Sunday morning, as we began our Life Group lesson, I shared with the class a devotional I had once, many years ago, clipped out of Dr. David Jeremiah's Turning Points monthly devotional guide. The story Dr. Jeremiah shared in that devotion went like this:
There's an old story about a preacher who showed up early for a speaking engagement. Looking around, he noticed a moneybox on the wall. He made a five dollar contribution to it, thinking it was for the poor. After the service, his host walked him to the door and took the money from the box. "This is where our people contribute to the visiting preacher," said the man, "and you've done better than most. Look, here's a five-dollar bill." Later the man told the story to his family. "Dad," observed his son, "if you had put more into it, you would have gotten more out of it."
Dr. Jeremiah goes on to say, "The Book of Revelation is like that. The more we put into studying it, the more we'll get out of it."
That's a principle I have stressed over the years. To students in my English classes. And to my piano students. There is a direct relationship between the effort you put in outside the classroom or away from the piano studio, and the result you get in class or at your piano lesson. More time spent practicing leads to better performance at your lesson!
I've emphasized this principle to my Bible Study classes as well. The more time we spend studying, the more effort we put into understanding, leads to a better result. And that is especially true with a book as complex as Revelation.
With that in mind, I gave a homework assignment to the class Sunday. I'm not sure how many of them will actually follow through with it, but it's my hope that at least some of them will. There are actually two parts to the assignment. One is to read the Book of Revelation, a chapter a day. And when you get to the end, start over and do it again. And then do it again and again.
There's a reason for that. Actually, two reasons. For starters, the more you read it and the more familiar you become with it, the more it will begin to make sense to you! And secondly, there's a promised blessing for reading it......."Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of the prophecy, and heed the things which are written in it; for the time is near." (Revelation 1:3 NASB, emphasis mine).
The second part of the assignment is to make a list of the names given to the Lord Jesus in the Book of Revelation. This book is "The Revelation of Jesus Christ......" (Revelation 1:1 NASB), so let's take the time to discover what it reveals about Him!
Perhaps you would want to join us in this journey of discovery! Begin reading today, and make your list of what you learn about Jesus! I promise you will be blessed!
I'll help you get started:
"from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To Him who loves us and released us from our sins by His blood - and He has made us to be a kingdom, priests to His God and Father - to Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen." (Revelation 1:5-6 NASB)
What do we learn about Jesus in these verses? Begin your list with these titles: the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, the ruler of the kings of the earth.
And there's much more to come! You don't have to understand it all yet. Just start making the list, and asking the Father to reveal truth to you. You'll be glad you did!
There's an old story about a preacher who showed up early for a speaking engagement. Looking around, he noticed a moneybox on the wall. He made a five dollar contribution to it, thinking it was for the poor. After the service, his host walked him to the door and took the money from the box. "This is where our people contribute to the visiting preacher," said the man, "and you've done better than most. Look, here's a five-dollar bill." Later the man told the story to his family. "Dad," observed his son, "if you had put more into it, you would have gotten more out of it."
Dr. Jeremiah goes on to say, "The Book of Revelation is like that. The more we put into studying it, the more we'll get out of it."
That's a principle I have stressed over the years. To students in my English classes. And to my piano students. There is a direct relationship between the effort you put in outside the classroom or away from the piano studio, and the result you get in class or at your piano lesson. More time spent practicing leads to better performance at your lesson!
I've emphasized this principle to my Bible Study classes as well. The more time we spend studying, the more effort we put into understanding, leads to a better result. And that is especially true with a book as complex as Revelation.
With that in mind, I gave a homework assignment to the class Sunday. I'm not sure how many of them will actually follow through with it, but it's my hope that at least some of them will. There are actually two parts to the assignment. One is to read the Book of Revelation, a chapter a day. And when you get to the end, start over and do it again. And then do it again and again.
There's a reason for that. Actually, two reasons. For starters, the more you read it and the more familiar you become with it, the more it will begin to make sense to you! And secondly, there's a promised blessing for reading it......."Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of the prophecy, and heed the things which are written in it; for the time is near." (Revelation 1:3 NASB, emphasis mine).
The second part of the assignment is to make a list of the names given to the Lord Jesus in the Book of Revelation. This book is "The Revelation of Jesus Christ......" (Revelation 1:1 NASB), so let's take the time to discover what it reveals about Him!
Perhaps you would want to join us in this journey of discovery! Begin reading today, and make your list of what you learn about Jesus! I promise you will be blessed!
I'll help you get started:
"from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To Him who loves us and released us from our sins by His blood - and He has made us to be a kingdom, priests to His God and Father - to Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen." (Revelation 1:5-6 NASB)
What do we learn about Jesus in these verses? Begin your list with these titles: the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, the ruler of the kings of the earth.
And there's much more to come! You don't have to understand it all yet. Just start making the list, and asking the Father to reveal truth to you. You'll be glad you did!
Monday, June 2, 2014
Asking the Wrong Question
When I visited the rheumatologist last week, he changed my medication. As he was explaining the new medication and what I could expect from it, he said his office often gets calls from patients after they begin this particular drug regimen asking "why did you wait so long to give me this?" And after just a few days, I can understand that question. I, too, am asking "why did you wait so long?"
I once had a student in a 12th grade English class who need to make a grade of 90 or higher on his final exam in order to pass the course. If he didn't score at least 90 on the exam, he would not pass 12th grade English and therefore would not graduate with his class. He and I had a number of conversations about this in the weeks leading up to exam time, yet his effort in class never changed and he continued to just barely slide by. I was so frustrated with this student! But when he took his exam, his score was 98! And then I was even more frustrated! Why hadn't he studied like that all along? Why did he take so long to begin making an effort?
Did you ever stop to think that God might be asking the same question of us? As we go through life without making any real effort to study His Word or to spend time with Him in prayer. As we just "slide by". I wonder if the Lord might like to say to us "what are you waiting for?" or "what took you so long?"
The reverse is also true. Sometimes, as we're waiting for answers to a particular prayer or are waiting for God to intervene in a particular situation, we're wanting to ask Him that same question, aren't we?
What's taking so long? What are You waiting for?
I was thinking about that this morning, particularly as it relates to waiting for our house to sell. And I'll just go ahead and admit to you that I'm frustrated that it hasn't sold yet, frustrated that this process isn't moving along on my timetable. But it occurs to me today that perhaps there's a reason for that. One which I hadn't really considered before.
Perhaps I'm asking the wrong question. Perhaps the question should not be what's taking so long, but perhaps the question should be what are You wanting to accomplish in me while we're waiting.
God's timing is always perfect. His plan is always perfect. And if I don't yet have an answer to the thing I'm praying about, there's a reason.
I need to be asking a different question.
Beginning today, my question is not Why are You waiting so long? Or When are You going to sell this house?
Beginning today, my question is What are you wanting to teach me while I wait?
I don't know what your situation is. I don't know what question you have been asking. But perhaps today, you need to consider - as I did - that you've been asking the wrong question.
"For it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure." (Philippians 2:13 NASB)
I once had a student in a 12th grade English class who need to make a grade of 90 or higher on his final exam in order to pass the course. If he didn't score at least 90 on the exam, he would not pass 12th grade English and therefore would not graduate with his class. He and I had a number of conversations about this in the weeks leading up to exam time, yet his effort in class never changed and he continued to just barely slide by. I was so frustrated with this student! But when he took his exam, his score was 98! And then I was even more frustrated! Why hadn't he studied like that all along? Why did he take so long to begin making an effort?
Did you ever stop to think that God might be asking the same question of us? As we go through life without making any real effort to study His Word or to spend time with Him in prayer. As we just "slide by". I wonder if the Lord might like to say to us "what are you waiting for?" or "what took you so long?"
The reverse is also true. Sometimes, as we're waiting for answers to a particular prayer or are waiting for God to intervene in a particular situation, we're wanting to ask Him that same question, aren't we?
What's taking so long? What are You waiting for?
I was thinking about that this morning, particularly as it relates to waiting for our house to sell. And I'll just go ahead and admit to you that I'm frustrated that it hasn't sold yet, frustrated that this process isn't moving along on my timetable. But it occurs to me today that perhaps there's a reason for that. One which I hadn't really considered before.
Perhaps I'm asking the wrong question. Perhaps the question should not be what's taking so long, but perhaps the question should be what are You wanting to accomplish in me while we're waiting.
God's timing is always perfect. His plan is always perfect. And if I don't yet have an answer to the thing I'm praying about, there's a reason.
I need to be asking a different question.
Beginning today, my question is not Why are You waiting so long? Or When are You going to sell this house?
Beginning today, my question is What are you wanting to teach me while I wait?
I don't know what your situation is. I don't know what question you have been asking. But perhaps today, you need to consider - as I did - that you've been asking the wrong question.
"For it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure." (Philippians 2:13 NASB)
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