Woes in our World

Glance in the mailbox, and there is a way-larger-than expected medical bill. Flip on the television to see North Korea threatening. A couple of weeks ago during the hurricane, I heard that several friends had to grab towels and buckets for the leaks in their roofs due to the massive raining in our area. In the church service, we listen to so many who are sick or having heartbreaking situations. In addition, spiritual warfare is so real. Sometimes, it feels like Satan is standing on a balcony watching for our weakest moments to swoop in and attack.  I often wonder where I can go to escape it all!

I reflect on Pastor Scott’s words and know he is right.  “In today’s world, a person is either coming out of a storm, going through a storm, or one is brewing up ahead.” There is no wonder that we have serious addiction and depression problems in America.  Without God, how do we stand a chance?

Discovering the Wonder in the World

Often my prayer is to notice the little blessings that God weaves into my day.  He is faithful, and when I am looking, they are easily seen.

Early in the school year, I running late.  Thus, I forgot my breakfast. Dashing into the lunchroom, I searched for a yogurt. I am no fun without food or sleep! My face lit when I saw the metal bin of oatmeal. The sweet lady got me a double bowl of oatmeal! It was delicious! Oatmeal takes me back to being a kid at Nana’s. Thus, it warms my heart and has become not only a healthy breakfast but a treat that provides comfort. This lunch lady greets me each time I go into the cafeteria . Now, she saves me a double bowl every Tuesday and Thursday!  

Most mornings God paints me the prettiest sky for my drives in school.  Pinks, yellows, and blues form my wake up blessings.  Sometimes He adds puffy white balls, but other times He stretches the white patches into thin, scattered layers with a hint of color glowing through. Other dawns share the sunshine cascading onto the ground that allows me to vision Christ’s ascension into Heaven.

I strive each and every morning to pause and spend some quiet time with God. His word, and I am amazed at how often He speaks directly to my current circumstances or the situations that a loved one might need to hear. I talk with Him, and He talks to me while I pray.  He never asks me to hold on until He has time for me.  He considers me His friend, and I am blessed.

My oatmeal, the morning skies, or even reading my Bible will not ease the horrid news broadcasts, the leaks in the roofs, the bills that are due, or the weather catastrophes. But these everyday blessings remind me He is with me throughout my day. Because He walks with me and He talks to me, and He tells me I am His own.  And this makes me smile!