Peace in preparation...

Recently, my husband and I went grocery shopping.  That may sound quite routine but it is a major endeavor.  We go to the grocery store every six to eight weeks.  Sure, there are other times we stop for more milk or fresh produce. Yet we have found that making large trips less often saves money, keeps supplies organized and prevents unnecessary purchases. It requires planning ahead as well as keeping an updated list but it works exceptionally well. I also tabulate each item as we shop so I know what to expect later.  I began thinking about this process.

There is no doubt that I learned a great deal from my parents as they provided for a family of seven.  With five children, (four of them were sons), they worked hard to make sure we had what we needed. Mom stayed busy working at home.  Dad worked hard at his job, then returned home to help with chores and projects..  We were taught to never waste, to work hard, to share, to be responsible and to appreciate what we had.  Needs always came before wants.  I know they sacrificed so that our needs...and occasional wants...were met.

I am constantly amazed how God takes care of us.  Often, I am so busy trying to take care of family, house and other projects that I forget to thank Him for all He does.  I even forget to share my deepest concerns with Him sometimes.  Yet there's never been a day I went without His love, mercy, grace, protection and provision.  There's never been a time I had to wonder if the sun would shine or if He was holding me on this journey.  There's much I haven't understood.  The journey has not always been easy.  I have questioned Him, pleaded with Him, disagreed with His timing and inquired about His plan.  Yet I know He is faithful.  He knows my name.  He knows my need.  He knows what is best.  He even knows that I love to ask questions.  He is God.  I am not.  He has sacrificed far beyond what I deserved.  He holds me.  He heals me.  He carries me.  He is always present.

In my busy plans and activities, I must pause to thank Him for all the He does.  I thank Him for holding my life together far better than I can ever do alone.  May I be more mindful and faithful toward Him, the Great I Am, the Everlasting Father.  I am amazed.  I am grateful. I am never alone. <3~thl