"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28
News about changes in life can be alarming and cause discomfort. Whether it's a change in personnel, policy, plans or place, disruptions for most of us are difficult. Change can instigate a raging ocean of emotions... hurt, fear, grief, guilt, uncertainty, anger, panic, shock, confusion.
So how do we properly channel change? Through God.
In everything, including changes, God is still in control. He is aware and will take care of all things in His perfect way. How He plans to work through and with the changes in our life calls for our complete trust in Him. The God that holds this world together, holds each of us individually too.
He's got us.
friend, we are loved and chosen by God,
veneal
"He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them His way." Psalm 25:9
Big heart, small head.
Father, help me keep my heart and head in the right proportions. I want to humbly serve you.
friend, we are love and chosen by God,
veneal
"'For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways', declares the LORD. 'As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.'" Isaiah 55:8-9
"What do you see the teacher asked?"
To me, it was a simple, easy answer. It was just a capital "G", or possibly a fancy hook, but that was all.
But to a student who applied a dose of creative thinking, they saw something much more. In their astute mind a fabulous, elaborate fish danced on the page. Their vision was far bigger and better than anything i could dream of on my own.
God, when i'm facing trials, challenges and difficulties, draw this memory back in my mind. It clearly demonstrates the shortsightedness i possess as a human. Many times i have a tendency to see things just as they are in that minute, instead of the beauty of what they can be/will be... with You. I want to trust You with greatness in all things.
I see today's hook now, in a different "Light"... God calls us to be Fishermen of people.
friend, we are loved and chosen by God,
veneal
“But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in Him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green.
It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.” Jeremiah 17:7-8
Keeping our roots in His Living Waters builds and strengthens our faith, especially during turbulent times. We will not perish, but produce. And when we bear the Fruit of the Spirit, others taste and see how good God is. You are a blooming beauty feeding all in your path.
Father, how grateful i am
that no matter what's going on, You are with me. I'm digging my toes
deep in Your unshakeable, unconditional foundation of Love and Grace.
friend, we are loved and chosen by God,
veneal
"The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to Him in song." Psalm 28:7
Fully Rely On God, and you will sing for joy.
friend, we are loved and chosen by God,
veneal
"Be kind and compassionate to one another..." Ephesians 4:32
How could it be? Elaine had only lived in the neighborhood for a few weeks, yet she appeared to know many. When walking, her response was always the same. She waved to every car passing by.
But how did she know everyone? She even waved to every car approaching from behind. How did she recognize them? Was she familiar with the sound of their car... the purr, the clunk, the sputter, the roar?
Then it finally clicked.
Elaine waved the same to everyone -- whether she knew them or not. A random act of kindness extended to all. No favoritism, no expectations, no questions... just pure kindness.
A handy lesson to remember and practice. Thank You, Father.
friend, we are loved and chosen by God,
veneal
"I can do everything through Him who gives me strength." Philippians 4:13
Left at my desk by a friend, the following note....
I could only laugh. How well she knows me! All that needed to change was the order.
Father, may You be first in my day, my mind, my heart and my soul.
"But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Matthew 6:33
friend, we are loved and chosen by God,
veneal
