All in Trust
Life’s Tangles
Ah, providence—God’s providence is everywhere in the story of Joseph: “God both possesses and exercises absolute power over the works of his hands.”* As Kelly Minter writes: “Is it possible that what appears to be nothing but a tangle of other people’s agendas will somehow be the very ball of yarn God will use to weave one of the most redemptive masterpieces in human history?”**
Stones of Remembrance
Stones of remembrance are mentioned in Joshua 3. The Israelites were ready to cross into the promised land. The Jordan River, which was at flood stage, stood in their way. It was impossible for them to cross. But God miraculously parted the Jordan, and the Israelites crossed on dry ground into the promised land. One man from each of the twelve tribes of Israel gathered a stone from the middle of the Jordan. The twelve stones were made into a memorial so future generations would know God’s power. Nothing is impossible with God!
Taking Each Step
So much joy occurs in watching your baby take the first step! It is so exciting! Picture grandparents crowding around with the camera ready. Mommy, behind the baby, holding her up. Daddy, with outstretched arms, inviting his baby to walk toward him, encouraging her to take that first step… and each one after that!
Warmth
Picture sitting by a warm fire ablaze, roasting marshmallows and drinking hot chocolate on a cool winter evening with family and friends. Enjoying sweet fellowship is a delightful moment most people cherish. The warmth of the fire and love for each other encourages our hearts.
Jesus in the Waiting – When You Feel Overwhelmed
It looked more like an airport than a clinic - security checkpoints, information desks scattered throughout the building. Not wanting to be late for my first appointment, I scanned the building for anyone who looked like they could tell me where I needed to go.
Joyful
I enjoy hiking a new scenic trail in the mountains. There is a fun sense of adventure with the challenge of something new and the beautiful views that await me, including the unknowns ahead. There are often choices in the trail of two different ways to go. Will I pick the right one? Will it be marked well so I choose wisely?
It is Worth It!
Have you tried to take a toy from a toddler, and she doesn’t want to give it up? It may be naptime or perhaps you need to leave from playing with a friend, but no matter what you try, you cannot pry those little fingers off of that toy without many tears and protests.
A Picture of Prayer
A visit from my brother and sister-in-law provided multiple opportunities to visit during meals. Some conversations focused on health needs. Another time we discussed the content of our best-loved books. My favorite meal, though, included hilarious stories of my brother’s adolescent escapades!
Rooted in Love
Recently, we had a fun day visiting a nearby tulip farm. Rows and rows of beautiful brightly colored tulips!
Staying on Track
Mall walking… have you done this?
It is a walk around an indoor shopping mall, so you can look at the items on display as you pass by the windows. It is a form of entertainment and exercise… or so they say.
Stand
I learned that I can only stand firm in the Lord’s strength… this is the key!
Secrets
I like secrets! To me, they are fun little surprises… like gifts! Helpful hints, secrets or tips that encourage you or make life better.
Journey with Jesus
Have you been to the coast of Maine? It is beautiful, dramatic and rocky, just like a Thomas Kinkade painting… lighthouses and all! I recently went on a mission trip there. Jesus used this experience to make helpful and beautiful changes in my heart. This is a journey that I chose and enjoyed.
Lifequakes
The giant and grasshopper mentality of the Israelites brought Moses to his knees once again, pleading. God’s reputation was at stake: “If you put these people to death all at one time, the nations who have heard this report about you (that you are with these people, v.14) will say, ‘The LORD was not able to bring these people into the land he promised them on oath; so he slaughtered them in the desert’” (14:14-16)
Expectancy or Expectation
My precious granddaughter is in the terrific twos, so her emotions are all over the spectrum. If she does not get what she wants, screaming, crying, and pouting follow.
Upon reading Emmanuel by Ruth Chou Simons, I realized I was more like my granddaughter than I cared to admit.
A Picture of Mercy
If I asked you to take a picture of something representing God’s mercy, what would your photo include? Would it be a selfie of you and your friend hugging—the friend you had previously hurt with your words. Would you take a picture of the warning you received from the police officer instead of a speeding ticket?
Laughter
Sarah laughed but it was laughter of doubt, as if to say… “Ha, that is not happening!”
Has God ever told you something that seemed laughable?