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Unforeseen Obstacles
Thursday, September 30, 2021 by Barbara
Moving Moments #3
On July 24 we moved our belongings to our new home’s garage and basement. We were sure we could live in one room and without a kitchen for a few weeks. But then came the unforeseen—we needed new wiring and plumbing. Ka-ching! Oh, and the doors are on backorder—all doors—outside doors, closet doors, even shower doors. And, the electrician suffered a family crisis so we are still without kitchen hook-ups. Unanticipated delays, unforeseen obstacles, unplanned snags. Sounds like life, doesn’t it?
How do we successfully handle the deferments, disappointments, and difficulties life throws at us? I have found only one way effective—gratitude.
Our choice is grumbling or gratitude and a thankful heart wins every time. When I thank God for what I have, my lack diminishes. When I focus on the blessings my needs recede. When I content myself with the wait, my patience is rewarded with expectation. This is true of renovations to our house and to my heart.
I am not the woman I would like. I’m under construction, detoured from becoming who God created me to be, deferred by obstacles, diverted by the interference of others, discouraged by hindered holiness.
But then I thank God for loving me. He sees me as holy, beautiful, beloved, His. I am rescued, saved, adopted, loved, forgiven. I have purpose, I make His heart glad, I look behind me and find His goodness and mercy following me (Psalm 23:6). My name is written on His hands (Isaiah 49:15). His arms are underneath me (Deuteronomy 33:27). His eyes are on me, His ears hear me (1 Peter 3:12). His heart is for me (Jeremiah 29:11).
Are you suffering delays? Disruptions? Difficulties? Disappointments? Disillusionment?
Delight yourself in the Lord,
and He will give you the desires of your heart (Psalm 37:4, ESV).
More thoughts about pondering the positive rather than the problems is found in chapters seven and eight of I Was Broken, Too.
Comments
Debbie Grant From At 10/1/2021 9:49:46 AM
Through the difficult times we travel through He is always teaching us something. Sometimes the lessons are so that we will be able to minister to others. Other times He is placing us on the Potter's wheel removing stuff from our lives to make us more like Him. Through it all depend on Him!Reply by: Barbara Higby Author
Amen!Debby Bellingham From Milton, NY At 10/1/2021 6:35:21 AM
I can sooooo relate. Thanks. DLora Schwacke From Wyckoff At 10/1/2021 6:15:43 AM
I feel your pain and frustration! We’ve been living in our home for 20 years. It was built in the 60s. I feel like we’re still atoning for the bad design choices made by the previous owners! I just spent the last two days with the plumber! Correcting issues with the boiler!Reply by: Barbara Higby Author
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