Greetings Prayer Warriors,
You’ve probably heard the saying, “If you want to make the Lord laugh, tell him YOUR plans!” I’m not so sure I like the sound of that laughter, because who doesn’t think they know what’s best for them and their family?! The Lord knows each of us intimately probably is greatly amused by what WE think we need. However, He KNOWS what we need, and His plan is to guide us to heaven to be with Him throughout eternity.
For I know well the plans I have in mind for you—oracle of the LORD—plans for your welfare and not for woe, so as to give you a future of hope. When you call me, and come and pray to me, I will listen to you.
Jeremiah 29:11-12
However, no road to total fulfillment is ever gained by walking on a bed of roses. Some of the most joyful people endured incredible hardship to get there, yet their light shines so brightly.
Thus He gives us crosses big and small, usually much smaller than we would describe them. Oh how we hate suffering! Yet, we are ALWAYS assured of His love, for we are His beloved. With great difficulty, we try to reconcile in our heads His gifts of consolations and desolations. Eventually, we come to discover that they will primarily be revealed to us in our hearts, for it is there that the Lord wants to conform us.
In him we were also chosen, destined in accord with the purpose of the One who accomplishes all things according to the intention of his will.
Ephesians 1:11
All He asks for is your hand so that He can lead you, and also provide assurance, comfort, and respite along the way.
Even there your hand guides me, your right hand holds me fast.
Psalms 139:10
As you become anxious about your journey or that of a family member, ask for the gifts of faith and patient trust. Surrender yourself like a child, into the Father’s arms.
Lord, we pray that our desire to conform to this world lessens, and that our desire to be conformed to your Will increases. We ask this for our family members as well, for as “the world” grows in strength, they need your loving protection all the more. Show them your abundant love in unexpected ways, and expose all the alluring false promises and lies of the world. Grant us the grace to endure our thorns and crosses, in total love for You. With child-like trust, we take your hand and place all of our trust in You!
Peace, Joy, and Love,
Janet
Be child-like, but with more patience! Pass it on!
