Apples of Gold

There was a time that I was able to juggle multiple tasks without missing a beat. My homeschooling schedule for our 3 daughters was broken down into 15 minute increments, optimizing the strengths and weaknesses of each child, in order to complete our day by early afternoon; ideally with no homework for anyone. 

Over the course of time my brain has become somewhat less reliable.  The former steel trap, now functions more like a lobster trap, at times allowing important data to slip through the cracks. 

Recently I had a meeting following a church service with a couple of ladies. It was quite comical, and perhaps a bit concerning, that each of us messaged the other to please remind us because we were all concerned about an unintended memory lapse!

As faulty human beings, there are times that we all unintentionally overlook something important. (Ok, I have a friend or two who keeps extremely diligent and detailed records and perhaps has managed to avoid this calamity. But I assure you, they are in the super-minority.) 

Like a child, concerned that Santa might not be able to deliver their gifts, because they are at Grandma’s house on Christmas Eve, we fret that this trait might be mirrored in our Heavenly Father’s Care for us. Admittedly, occasionally we go through trials that obscure our view of the activity of God in our circumstances. It is with a grateful, and thoroughly relieved heart, that I find Scripture makes it clear our Omniscient God is aware of not only our mountains but the smallest details of our lives.

You know when I sit down or stand up. You know my thoughts even when I’m far away. You see me when I travel and when I rest at home. You know everything I do. You know what I am going to say even before I say it, LORD. You go before me and follow me. You place your hand of blessing on my head. Psalm 139:2-5

Even though we experience loneliness, the child of God is never truly alone. God is not only walking with us through our trials, he is guiding us and making a way for our victory. 

My adorable grandson, Elijah, is starting to experiment with walking. He has not connected the dots between face planting and tears as of yet. So everyone is on high alert as we encourage his independence but attempt to limit the bumps along the path. 

When Elijah falters his tears are not met with an “I told you so!” but rather a hug and gentle words of compassion and encouragement. I’m convinced that one of the reasons God chose to be known as our Father is that he wants us to comprehend his patience and desire to steady us when we wobble, and console us when we crash. 

The LORD is like a father to his children, tender and compassionate to those who fear him. Psalm 103:13

Unlike earthly fathers who blow it at times, our God is consistent in compassion and constant in his care. The need for the presence of God in our lives is quite extensive. His direction, protection and correction are all not only necessary, but our very sustenance. 

But may all who search for you be filled with joy and gladness in you. May those who love your salvation repeatedly shout, “The LORD is great!” As for me, since I am poor and needy, let the Lord keep me in his thoughts. You are my helper and my savior. O my God, do not delay. Psalm 40:16-17

Unlike the unsteady toddler, we have learned that although risk is connected to reward, it is also connected to failure, disappointment and uncertainty. A healthy relationship with God demands a willingness to grow, to change, to take risks. Sometimes the familiar represents a sense of safety and comfort that we are hesitant to venture away from. 

When the nudge of the Holy Spirit beckons us to enter uncharted territory, we can find ourselves holding on with an iron grasp to circumstances that we have grown accustomed to. The pull of excitement that comes with stepping out into the unknown is often unable to compete with the magnetic draw of the known. Its allure can keep us in our cozy, safe space. 

Moses originally resisted the call of God. Even after God turned his staff into a snake and performed a miracle on his skin, Moses was not sure he was up to this task:

But Moses pleaded with the LORD, “O Lord, I’m not very good with words. I never have been, and I’m not now, even though you have spoken to me. I get tongue-tied, and my words get tangled.” Exodus 4:10

Moses completely understood that God was calling him to fulfill this role. Moses didn’t want to. It seemed too important. He seemed unqualified. 

Listen carefully to the Lord’s response to Moses’ foot dragging:

“Who makes a person’s mouth? Who decides whether people speak or do not speak, hear or do not hear, see or do not see? Is it not I, the LORD? Now go!” Exodus 4:11

It is crucial that we grasp the fact that willingness is the only thing God is asking of us. Our giftings might line up with our calling but they might not. It matters very little because success is entirely dependent on God working through us. 

We should not fear new things. We should not fear difficult things. The one who goes before us and behind us has it all figured out. 

Don’t be afraid for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. Isaiah 41:10