NEEDING DIRECTION

In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:6 (KJV)

At sixty years old, I fled an abusive marriage; moved alone to a new town, seventy-seven miles away from my original residence. Rescuers had given me furniture and the courts were in my favor, so I had a little income.

Weeks later, in my new home near my daughter and her family, I complained because my TV channels were different—couldn't find favorite programs. Then while driving around, I got lost. I didn't know the area and I was totally confused. I called my daughter, requesting she trace the call and find out where I was.

Later, I dropped into a chair, totally whipped by my circumstances and tears filled my eyes. I wanted to go home. But I didn't want to go back to him. Confusion and sadness became my daily companion.

I prayed, "Oh Lord, you've delivered me from the lawyers, from the financial struggles and have brought me to this new safe place. Grant me wisdom and show me the way."

I talked with a Christian Counsellor, and my friend. After I shared all my facts, she advised. "You're not homesick for him, you are homesick for the familiar,  Make a point of getting to know all your home town, make notes for your TV and buy something new for your home, making it all yours.

I put sticky notes on the TV remote. My daughter and I went furniture shopping and bought a curio cabinet and I unpacked all my knick knacks and figurines. Then I decided I'd start with one new road a week and travel from one end of town to the other. 

Victoriously, the Lord and I conquered my new path.

Thank You, Lord, nothing is impossible for You. Amen and amen.

Ⓒ 2019 Lois Gosley

GOD WILL OPEN THE DOOR

Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be open to you. 

Matthew 7:7 (RSV)

My father was a strong, hardworking business man. He loved his work and his family. I had just begun working as a public-school teacher when my father was diagnosed with cancer. I watched him struggle into the late stages of this disease as my loving mother and younger siblings fought daily against his burden. I prayed for God's direction.

I spent time with the Lord explaining my worries and inability to carry the physical and mental burdens, coupled with my teaching responsibilities. I felt like my hands were tied. I asked the Lord to give my mother respite, my father peace and me direction.

"I'm young, Lord," I said. "Let me carry most of the load for them."

The Lord spoke softly to me. "You ask, and  you will receive. You are young and able. I will give you the strength physically, mentally and emotionally to help your parents. I will help you carry the load."

My prayers were answered. My busy schedule opened up enough for me to be with my family and help. My worry dissipated, my energy level soared, and the Most-High God brought me peace.

Thank You, Heavenly Father, for always being there. You are always available when we ask for Your help. Amen

Ⓒ2019 Christy Struben

CELEBRATE!

 

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:10-11 (NIV)

A nine-year-old child is impressionable, but truth is powerful, even at that age. Seventy-three years ago these verses were part of my instruction as our family celebrated Christmas. A couple of months later it led to my baptism.

 

Consider the power of the scene this passage relates. It was just an ordinary night. A group of shepherds were tending their sheep as usual. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared to them. What did the angel look like? It must have been glorious and full of light. The angel’s first concern was that they would be frightened, so he assured them he was bringing good news—even joyous news.

 

The heavenly news was that tonight, in a town near them, a Savior has been born. This Savior was none other than the Christ, the Promised One, the Messiah for whom the people of Israel had been waiting for centuries.

 

As soon as the news was delivered, a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel and praised God saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.” Their celebration must have been awesome to behold!

 

How many years have you experienced the great joy that Christ brings? Though you can’t see them, know that the heavenly hosts are still celebrating. Let’s join them in spirit this season as we all give glory to God in the highest.

 

Lord Jesus, happy birthday! What a wonderful, joyous Savior you are!

DEPENDING ON GOD

". . . And your ears shall hear a word behind you saying, 'This is the way, walk in it.' when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left." 

Isaiah 30:21 (RSV)

When I accepted the job of children's director of Community Bible Study, I felt totally inadequate. One morning as I collected the felt Bible characters, paints and brushes, craft paper, glue and Cheerios for manna, I felt overwhelmed with all my new responsibilities.

I toted my overloaded shopping bag to the car, sat behind the wheel ready to leave when I remembered I had forgotten the large poster boards containing the memory verse. I withdraw my key from the ignition, unlocked the house and returned with the poster boars.

After starting the car again, I realized I forgot my lunch. One more time I dashed into the house.

Totally frustrated, I collapsed my head onto the steering wheel and moaned, "Dear Lord, I'm not qualified for this job." Just then I remembered the above verse and felt God say, "I haven't let you forget anything yet, have I?"

Now, after ten years on the job, I know my adequacy is from God. I pray first, make a list, and ask God to check it. Today is the tomorrow you prayed for yesterday.

Dear Lord, Thank you there is never a job to great or too small that You and I can't handle together. Amen.

Ⓒ 2019  Lois Gosley