In Training

A few days ago, I sat down for my quiet time with God and picked up my daily devotional. What it said couldn't have been more perfect for me and the place I am in my life.

"I am training you to cultivate a thankful mind-set. This is like building your house on a firm rock, where life's storms cannot shake you. As you learn these lessons, you are to teach them to others. I will open up the way before you, one step at a time."

Tears flowed. 

Now to take the steps God has laid out for me.

If you've followed my recent posts you know my life, this past year or so, has been a uphill climb. And as I'v climbed, I've been trying to do just what this devotion says - cultivate a heart of thanksgiving. Today, I woke up feeling bewildered and a bit lost. While my family (some live here on this property with me) set out to do their daily tasks. I stayed home. In the midst of my punk mood I felt as if I were being left behind ... again. 

And then I read God's Words for me today.

He has my steps planned out. He will show me the way He wants me to go. But, there is a requirement He is asking of me. I need to be grateful for who I am and where I am and to trust His choices for me. 

I have a great deal to be grateful for. I've been married to a man who has loved me, through thick and thin, for 47 years. I have three good-hearted children who love the Lord, and seven grandchildren who are a big part of my life. And we all love each other. I've spent 38 years in a home on a mountain-top planted in the midst of God's majestic beauty. And I am one of His children who lives with hope because He loves me and has saved me.

God will lead the way. He will open the doors. But we have to step through those doors, and if we're to know the joy and fulfillment God intends for us, we need to step out with thankful hearts. 

May you recognize and receive His many gifts, all wrapped in His love.

Grace and peace to you from God.

Bonnie

Quiet Moments With God -- In Training

How good it is to be speaking to you today.

Yesterday, Sunday, I woke with a sore back which isn't unusual. I sat and drank a cup of coffee and warmed up my tight muscles on a heating pad, then proceeded to get ready for church. While choosing what I'd wear, my back did its thing, and the next thing I knew I was shuffling to the closest chair and praying I didn't end up on the floor.

It wasn't the first time this had happened. I hoped it would pass quickly. I didn't want to miss church. However, my desires were not to be. Instead, I've been laid up for two days, though I'm happy to say the spasm is giving up some of its power.

I did all the things I know to do--ice, heat and medications. I also admit to shedding a few tears of frustration, which thankfully God understands. And I prayed a lot.

This afternoon, I'm finally able to sit in my chair and work on my computer. Before working, though, I read today's devotional from Jesus Calling. God is so good! He always knows what I need to hear. I want to share the entry with you.

"My peace is like a shaft of golden Light shining on you continuously. During days of bright sunshine, it may blend in with your surroundings. On darker days, My Peace stands out in sharp contrast to your circumstances. See times of darkness as opportunities for My Light to shine in transcendent splendor. I am training you to practice Peace that overpowers darkness. Collaborate with Me in this training. Do not grow weary and lose heart."

Blessed Lord, thank you!

It is His brightness that stands out against the darkness.  If we can praise Him for the dark days we will find the peace God speaks of. It is in our times of weakness that we realize our strength is in Him and it is the trials that teach us to trust in His perfection.

It is clear I need a lot more training, but I will not give up or give in.

Praying you will see the brilliance of His Light.

Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie