Keeping it real

I love to read. I'm not a particularly fast reader and I have a major problem with starting several books at once and having a pile on my bedside table that is far too high. But in saying that, it is such a privilege to be able to learn from many other wise people who have gone before us. I have been considering lately how difficulties in life really are opportunities given to us from God. The important thing is how we view them and who we decide to trust and follow right in the often ugly depth of our situation.

In "Becoming God's True Woman" by Nancy Leigh DeMoss, there is a chapter that is on nuturing mothers. It talks about the struggles that Hannah in the Bible faced before she had Samuel. I love the following,

"Hannah's story illustrates that wherever we are, and whatever the circumstances in our lives, God never forgets or forsakes us. That does not mean that we will not experience disappointment and loss - Scripture is clear that believers will suffer. Perhaps it is a mark of God's confidence when he lifts his hand from a godly woman - though for a brief time - and allows her to go through heartache and sorrow. I think of women I have known who have gone through great hearteaches and trials but have maintained a steadfast trust in the Lord. I, too, want to praise him , even in the dark, painful seasons of life." (p154-155)

Isn't that so true? It is only often at the end of our difficult season that we can see how God has worked and how he has sustained us - may I always know that whatever He leads me to, He will lead me through.

On the Metro Moms blog, they posted lyrics from songwriter Phil Keaggy. Great words.

Disappointment - His appointment,
Change one letter, then I see
That the thwarting of my purpose
Is God’s better choice for me.

His appointment must be blessing
Though it may come in disguise
For the end from the beginning,
Open to His wisdom lies.

Disappointment - His appointment
Whose? The Lord’s who loves best.
Understands and knows me fully,
Who my faith and love would test.

For like loving, earthy parent
He rejoices when He knows
That His child accepts unquestioned
All that from His wisdom flows.

Disappointment - His appointment
No good thing will he withhold
From denials oft we gather
Treasures from His love untold.

Well, He knows each broken purpose
Leads to fuller, deeper trust
And the end of all His dealings
Proves our God is wise and just.

Disappointment - His appointment
Lord I take it then as such,
Like the clay in hands of potter
Yielding wholly to Thy touch

All my life’s plan is Thy molding
Not one single choice be mine
Let me answer unrepining,
Father not my will but Thine.