"B" IS FOR.....

Which words have you heard most  during this coronavirus pandemic season----Boring, Bored and Boredom come to mind, as parts of speech which emphasize one's prevailing mood.
Bedraggled liked last week's roses? Mama Davenport would have made potpourri sachet from the petals to freshen her "intimates drawer".

My grandmother never thought it behooved one's spirit to bemoan present experiences.....she saw even good in scraggly roses.

Hm-m--m....words for musing, not bemusing.

Why am I baffled at the disparity in the way I saw life and the way she viewed it? She viewed all of life through a lens of worship and gratitude, not with a bewildering questioning "why me? " attitude. ...not just in a quick burst when good things came her way...but even struggles could become a bounty of blessings for all to see as she waited for God to show His hand & His plan.

The Lord was always her banner and her shield, regardless of life's struggles. He bestowed favor and honor on Mama Davenport because her walk never wavered---it was blameless and the Lord blessed her bountifully. (Psalm 84:11)

What "Bs" are reflected in your life?

Thrust of Trust

This summer has been a time of transition, concerns and difficult decisions for many of my dear ones, both friends and family: Farming friends rushing to get hay in before the rains; Special needs births, both here and in Mexico; A distressing cancer diagnosis for a young mom; Joblessness; A child's poor decision resulting in life altering consequences; Housing needs/renting/ selling/buying; Impending surgeries; School needs for children when money is lacking; Marital disappointment/discord, here and abroad; Ministry decisions; End of life approach for one's sibling. 

Today's Jesus Calling (7/15) once again speaks to me right where I am in my concern as I seek to pray for these difficulties. Sarah Young writes" "Throw off this oppressive burden with one quick thrust of trust,"

Do you, too, need a thrust of trust? If so, here's a trove of my favorite "trust" verses to help you in your thrusting.

• Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:9, NIV)
• But I trust in your unfailing love; (Psalm 13:5a) 
• Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God. (Psalm 20:7)
• But I trust in you, O LORD; I say, "You are my God."(Psalm 31:14)
• O LORD Almighty, blessed is the man who trusts in you. (Psalm 84:12)
• Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. (Proverbs 3:5-6)

Keep on thrusting; It increases trusting.