Provision, Perspective, and Pressing In
Wow, it’s been a little while since I last wrote. Honestly, I just haven’t felt much like writing lately. It’s not that things have been bad—in fact, quite a few good things have happened—but I’ve just felt a bit quiet inside.
We finished house-sitting for T, and she was so pleased with us that she asked if we’d be willing to come back whenever they travel. Apparently, they go out of town often and need someone reliable to care for their home and pets. She paid us $200—$25 a day! I was surprised and blessed. A day or two later, I found myself laughing. Only God could come up with a setup where we get paid to stay in a beautiful home with internet, a big-screen TV, a screened-in porch, and food in the fridge. What a sweet, unexpected blessing!
We also celebrated A’s birthday there. We grilled steaks, baked potatoes, and I made his requested pineapple upside-down cake. Everything seemed to go smoothly, and everyone appeared to enjoy themselves. I just pray that I didn’t unknowingly say something that will come back to me later via C. Honestly, I feel like I could say, “The sky is blue,” and she’d find offense in it. It’s such a painful and frustrating tension—not being able to do anything right in her eyes.
On a more uplifting note, I’ve now visited G and F three times—cooked meals, ran errands, helped with odds and ends—and they seem very happy with me so far. I’m truly enjoying my time with them and love being able to pray for them while I serve. There’s something sweet and meaningful about that connection.
And God's provision? It continues to amaze me. Our car insurance and cell phone bills were due, and we were running on empty—literally. No gas, no groceries. Then, one by one, the Lord made a way. House-sitting brought in $200, G paid me $50 after my first visit, and then Tom met with a man CB had referred to him. Before even meeting Tom, the Lord laid it on this man’s heart to bless him with $150. Within two days, every single need was covered. Gas, groceries, and bills—handled. Thank You, Jesus. You are so faithful.
Lately, I’ve been working a lot on the house and yard. Honestly, maybe too much. I’ve had to pause and ask myself: Am I slipping into performance again? Trying to earn God’s approval by doing? This house needs so much work, and while I want to help, I have to keep first things first. I’ve been neglecting my quiet time, and I feel it.
Today, I wasn’t feeling well, so I slowed down—spent time with Tom and with the Lord, then took a 2½-hour nap. I think this cold is the Lord’s way of pressing the “pause” button and gently calling me back to rest in Him. Refocus. Re-center. Abide.
We’re still being blessed by Oswald Chambers, and the groups we’re attending continue to minister deeply to both Tom and me. This past Sunday, CA prayed over Tom. She warred in the Spirit, praying in tongues, and while we don’t remember all the words, we do remember her saying she saw the word “Restoration” over his head. That he would be used to restore lives and hearts. And she saw a massive angel standing behind him, guarding and protecting him. That gave us such peace and encouragement. What a powerful image.
Tom and I have had our ups and downs, but we’re getting better—much better—at recognizing the real enemy. We’re not falling for the old schemes as easily. God is growing us, sharpening us, and anchoring us.
Father, thank you so much for your provision and your faithfulness to us. Thank you for your patience with us as you continue to teach us who we are in you. Lord, I ask forgiveness for my drifting into old behavior patterns and I ask for Your strength to stand firm and walk steadily on the path that you have set before me. In Jesus name, Amen!
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