Proverbs reads like a vicious tug of war. Fools, lazy, greedy, jealous–the words are pounded with a judge’s gavel at each line. Some of those titles I’ve worn myself, and others I’ve recognized in relationships. The words are barbed, and the strike rips open memories that give new meaning to Throw Back Thursday.
Lately life has felt like a tug of war. And whether it’s been over responsibilities or relationships, I feel pulled in many directions, yanked, torn. The days carry me one foot in front of the other, and I find myself advancing towards deadlines and skirmishes. I try to clear my head and shake out the onslaught of weighty things–just run my race. Put some blinders on. One foot in front of the other.
Those who trust their own insight are foolish,
but anyone who walks in wisdom is safe. Proverbs 28:26, NLT
I turned eagerly to the reading today because (because of a flare-up of a child’s chronic condition; a workload I’m not sure I can carry; backed-up toilets and a house gone haywire; rows of cards in the store and the battle I face at this time every year; invisibility) I need God.
I desperately need God.
My God, my Father. My God, my healer. My God, my savior. My God, my strength.
I found comfort in 1 Thessalonians 3.
We sent him to strengthen you, to encourage you in your faith, 3 and to keep you from being shaken by the troubles you were going through. But you know that we are destined for such troubles. 4 Even while we were with you, we warned you that troubles would soon come—and they did, as you well know. 5 That is why, when I could bear it no longer, I sent Timothy to find out whether your faith was still strong. I was afraid that the tempter had gotten the best of you and that our work had been useless.
6 But now Timothy has just returned, bringing us good news about your faith and love. He reports that you always remember our visit with joy and that you want to see us as much as we want to see you. 7 So we have been greatly encouraged in the midst of our troubles and suffering, dear brothers and sisters, because you have remained strong in your faith. 8 It gives us new life to know that you are standing firm in the Lord. 1 Thessalonians 3:2b-8, NLT.
Lord, I don’t always know what to do. I don’t always handle pressure well. And sometimes I get so distracted by troubles that my faith gets misplaced. Help me to walk in wisdom. Thank you that you see me, and you’ll never forsake me.
Courtney (66books365)
Sixty-six books in a year 