As I make my way through life as a Christ follower, there seem to be two words that don’t go together well in any language. These words are ‘no’ and ‘LORD’. Jonah is a perfect example of what happens to one who takes this approach to God’s command. We can also see this indictment in Jesus’ words to His disciples in Lk 6:46. It is enough to watch a movie or television show where interactions are seen between a king or queen, or a president and their ministers. Have you noticed? Every interaction is followed by a “Yes, your majesty” or “Yes, Mr. President”. If and when the minister (or whoever it is) disagrees or wishes to make a point to the contrary it is still “Yes, your majesty, but has your majesty considered so and so….” There is never a ‘no’. How much more should we take care of our response to the LORD of the universe? Not only does He promise correction (at best) to those who disobey, but He also promises blessings to those who do obey and follow His will for their lives (Jn. 14:21).
I have been trying to explain why it is that we moved to Montana at this particular point in our lives. It seemed very unpractical. No job. No calling – humanly speaking. Kids are in a “good place” in their surroundings. The whole thing has been a venture of faith since day 1. More than anyone I might have had the right to wrestle with God and say something like “Yes, Lord, but can you wait until Caleb graduates from high school? I mean, it is only one more year.” We would have loved to seen him graduate with his class. But, if I get to that point then….why then, Autumn graduates in 2 more years after that! It certainly would not be fair to her if I make that concession on Caleb’s behalf and not hers. Well, then, after that, Jake graduates in 2 more years. What would that do to him? And then Sammy will graduate in two more years, and so on, and so forth. I could find all sorts of technical arguments to present before God as to why His timing was all wrong. And delay my obedience indefinitely. And for a while, I did struggle. Why was it not easier? Why did I have to yank my kids out of a great place for them? How can I make a living? Why is it not easier? I know, I’ve asked this twice already!
I still don’t know the answers. I still wake up at strange hours of the night/early morning wondering if this month will be in the black or red ink. Yet, without regard to my lack of faith and short-sightedness, God Himself continues to provide for us. Secular work, faithful and sacrificial giving from loving friends and our sending church back in Katy. A new contract that wasn’t there last month. A new donor. It all comes together. Combine this with Sharon’s magical ability to make all ends meet…..and voilá (I like that word) it all comes together and I feel like a fool for ever doubting. Then I start again. Yet, in some strange and special way, God is building my faith. I’m ever so aware of my inconsistencies and can only cry out, like the father of the little sick girl in Mark 9:24 “I believe, help my unbelief!”
And yet, we walk by faith and not by sight. Hebrews 11 mentions that many never received the promise while here on earth! Not only that, they were horribly persecuted. And THEY are the ones “of whom the world was not worthy.” In any event, we wait for the perfect, ultimate provision from our Lord Jesus. Blessings!
As usual, it was a blessing to read your latest installment. I can “hear” ya talking… as I read the meditations of your heart. It was almost as if I could also hear “His” heart beating with pride as you h umbly poured out your most intimate feelings of uncertainty to all of us… yet also relating that you know that God is faithful in providing for all your needs.
I am so grateful that the Lord continues to bless you all, to use you so effectively and to send forth His Spirit through you as you serve the precious folks in the Helena Valley. It is with a little “bitter-sweetness” (
that I share in your joy, but I have to be honest and admit that I miss the blessings of being there myself!
I looked closely at the photo of the mountainous landscape… trying to discern where it was taken. It reminds me of somewhere along the “Beartooth Highway.” How much would I love to breathe in some of the fresh air found only in Big Sky Country!!!! Love ya’ll!!! Blessings and hugs, “Aunt Vickie”