In this world where destruction abounds, anxiety builds and stress peaks to highest levels, there is a Way to have peace. The only Way, has a Name.
His Name is Jesus.
As our family learns to surrender everything to Jesus, we are sort of 'sampling' what Paul meant when He penned the words, "I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content". Please don't misunderstand, we are by far 'doing without', we are very blessed! It is in the lesson of contentment though, that I tend to find difficulty. Dissatisfaction and fear comes when I take my eyes off of Jesus, and desire 'things', or I begin to become overwhelmed with what I see going on in the world.
When the focus of my heart and mind is in the proper place, I have the proper perspective. I am very thankful that though we have no control over the happenings in the world around us, our family rests in knowing that circumstances do not dictate the joy we have in Christ! Paul didn't find joy in prison. Because you see, he had Jesus before he went into that cell. Rather he took the joy of Christ into jail with him, therefore joy was his constant companion!
That can be very convicting....
Joy in all circumstances? It's sometimes a difficult lesson to instill in our children, because the best (and worst!) way to teach, is by example. When I am tempted to complain, worry or fear, it is then that God brings a gentle reminder. In His mercy and grace, He reminds me of those verses in Philippians, and guides my eyes so that they are once again fixed on Jesus, the Author and Finisher of my faith. He helps me to return my heart to my Shepherd, who tends to me with care, and I am reminded He will meet my every need, and carry every burden. I pray our children will grasp this even in these early years, I pray they will learn it by example.
This morning, I was encouraged by these words from Annie Johnson Flint, perhaps they will encourage you as well:
The Shepherd of Plenty
"His love has no limit,
His grace has no measure,
His pow'r has no boundary known unto men;
For out of His infinte riches in Jesus,
He giveth and giveth and giveth again!"
The Giver of LIFE, LOVE, PEACE, JOY and SO much more.... His Name is JESUS!
