Unsettling Conviction

I pulled another warm towel from the dryer and stood folding it when a wave of conviction settled over me.

Don’t you just hate when that happens? One of those run-and-hide moments but you can’t escape it.

My mind went back to last Sunday morning when my husband was asked to fill in for the worship leader who’d been called away at the last minute.

My first response? “Really? Matt can’t lead worship. He doesn’t sing. He’s a trumpet player.”

Ouch!

So much for confidence in my husband and so much for confidence in our incredible God who equips us to fulfill His every task so that we may be a blessing to others. I usually bristle when I hear someone categorize or stereotype another, yet there I was doing the same thing in thinking his abilities were limited within the confines of walls I’d essentially built around him!

What was I thinking? Instead of seeing it as an opportunity for my husband to be used of God in a tight situation, I focused on what I thought his abilities were.

Double ouch!

Was it fear? Was I afraid he would be embarrassed? Was I afraid I would be embarrassed? The convicting part? Forgetting that God wouldn’t lead either of us to embarrassment.

Forgive me, Lord Jesus! Help me to remember that we can do ALL things through You who strengthens us. You equip us for every task. You do not leave us stranded. Help me to see you clearly as you work in me and in the lives of those around me, and help me to never limit what you choose to do in your people. Amen.

Every. Single. Day. I see the signs of Jesus working in my life. He gives those little learning moments that teach, convict and also give me a safe resting place to remind me that it’s all going to be ok. That He is near. He is within. He is ahead and behind and cheering me on from the sidelines. And last Sunday, He was cheering Matt on, as well.

Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God,

the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, 

and his understanding no one can fathom. (Isaiah 40:28)

Waiting Out Every. Necessary. Step.

The swift change in temperature took me by surprise today and I welcomed the swirling leaves at my feet and the whisper of autumn across my face.

The quiet afternoon called for home-made bread.

Maybe enjoy a cup of coffee while the dough rises, I thought.

Maybe spend a few minutes in prayer for those heavy on my heart today and give praise to God when He directs me to the absolute perfect scripture….like He always does.

There’s a lot to be learned from making bread.

The perfect combination of ingredients sending up little drifts of flour. Steady hands working, kneading, preparing.

Each step is necessary.

Each step takes time.

Precious time.

And the waiting is difficult…but well worth it.

Lord Jesus,

Help me to be patient and to remember that as I wait upon You, You’re gathering all the necessary “ingredients” together and working them, molding and shaping them to perfection. You know me like no other, and even though I want to speed up the process or somehow “help” You to bring about the blessing sooner, it’s ALL in Your hands…..not mine.

I’m learning to be thankful for the waiting. For each necessary step. Each one takes time. Precious time. And yes, the waiting is difficult. And regardless of the outcome… in the end, I will praise You.

Amen.

Commit your way to the Lord;
    trust in him and he will do this:
He will make your righteous reward shine like the dawn,
    your vindication like the noonday sun.

Be still before the Lord
    and wait patiently for him;
do not fret when people succeed in their ways,
    when they carry out their wicked schemes. (Psalm 37) NIV

Be Blessed,

Debbie