Questions December 5, 2009
Life is always full of questions, but sometimes it seems like the questions are suddenly huge. And instead of just appearing in one area of life, they’re all over the place. Adam and I are in that kind of stage right now, where the future is filled with unknowns. Neither one of us has any idea what 2010 will hold. Lord willing, it will include a healthy newborn arriving in February (or maybe January – please Lord? Can this one come early?), but beyond that, we just don’t know. Will next year mean a new job for Adam? Will that be a good thing? Will 2010 include a cross-country move? And if so, will we be able to sell our house here? What will it be like to have a tiny baby in our house again, this time with a high-energy toddler around? Will we be able to handle everything in store for us?
Adam and I have had many talks lately about our uncertain circumstances. In church world you hear a lot about the will of God and his plans for the life of each individual. People talk about how it was God’s will for so and so to get married or to be sick or to lose his job. It’s all rather confusing to me, and I can’t say that I know where the line is between our personal decisions and God’s sovereign control.
Recently though, Adam and I came across a short verse in 1 Thessalonians that has clarified things for us. It says, “Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (5:18). Neither one of us can get it out of our heads. Whenever we talk about the future, we end up back at that verse. Sometimes it frustrates us. When we’re asking which direction to go, that’s not the answer we want. The verse’s instruction isn’t easy. But it is simple. And it reminds us of where our focus should be – less on what we should do tomorrow and more on thanking God for what he’s given us today.
Fabulous post. How did you get so mature so soon?
I can say, with great certainty, that YES, you will be able to handle and & juggle it all! And YES, God will make your paths clear and provide what is needed, when it’s needed. Jon and I are in a similar place of wondering what 2010 will mean for our family. We’ve been offered some new options for jobs, which may include moves. That, along with the thought of baby #4 arriving can send my head spinning! We too, are trusting HIM through each day and taking them one at a time. Love you sweet sister in Christ!
I totally agree with your mom and brandi; you and Adam are so grounded in Jesus, God’s word and His way, if you keep your focus on Him..He will show you every step of the way. Will you miss the mark sometimes? yes…we all do…but in His grace, mercy and love, He will also correct you. My sister always said “When in doubt don’t; is a good rule to live by…she is right. when something comes up that I have to make a decision on, if I have doubts, I ask the Lord to help me; if it is something I (think) is right..but not quite sure still…then I ask Him to give me confirmation this is HIM and not me. HE..has never failed me. Life is full of choices and decisions…that’s why it’s an adventure. when God is the leader of your life…it is a most exciting adventure! Each of your parents did an excellent job raising you…and God…ordained you to marry…has blessed you and will continue to bless you if you stay focused on Him. Like your mom said “trials make us strong’..blessings keep us humble”. We either reap the blessings of obedience or the consequences of disobedience….pure and simple. Love you dearly, GG
“I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in Him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13
“The steps of a man are established by the Lord, and He delights in his way.” Psalms 17:23
“The Lord looks after those who fear Him,those who put their hope in His love.” Psalms 33:18
“My God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory.” Phillippians 4:19
Linnea; that verse has surely helped me to let God take control of things in the past 5-months. Worrying about tomorrow just gives me a headache, so I jsut thank for today and hope for His grace for tomorrow when it comes.
Remember also, Phil. 4:13; “I can do all thing through Christ, who strengthens me”.