SOWING GOD'S WAY

What I read in the Daily Bread recently sure put our recent struggles in perspective. Vernon Grounds quoted Jeremy Taylor, who had suffered many losses in the 17th century because of his faith: "They have not taken away my merry countenance, my cheerful spirit, good conscience- they have still left me with the providence of God, and all His promises . .. my hopes of heaven, my charity to them too . .. I still sleep and digest, I eat and drink, read and meditate. And he that hath so many causes for joy, and so great- should never choose to sit down upon his little handful of thorns."


Psalm 107:21 "Give thanks to the Lord for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men!"


How hard it may be at times to remember His wonderful works, when we are suffering blow after blow. But yet we have so much to be thankful for, if we just look. What struck me most in this story is that Taylor was thankful for his 'good conscience and the providence of God'. It is a valuable asset to have a good conscience in these days, and to be able to hang onto what we believe in, and can believe in until the end of time.


I thought about that further. How do others see me? Our children are struggling with jobs, health care, paying rent, buying gas, rising grocery prices, and keeping their cars in good repair. I don't think I know anyone who is not being affected in this wild economy. Many of us are receiving blow after blow. That's hard, I know it.


I asked for prayer from my friends as my daughter faced yet another challenge. Was I cheerful, hopeful, expecting a good outcome? Or did I whine? Did I just add another request to the many, by remote, and without thinking? I believe I do at times.


I was also reminded of the choices so many of us have. People in other countries do not have choices. We can still choose other foods when our favorites are no longer available. We may be able to choose alternate heat when we don't have fuel oil, like burning wood. We can sometimes opt for public transportation or share- ride when our own cars become too expensive to fill with gas. Most of all, we can choose to share.


Even when things are tough, we can still hold onto a good conscience; trusting God, walking with Him, dealing honestly, doing what is right, loving others and being charitable. We can trust in His providence, knowing that He promises to take care of us.


Even in our tribulation, knowing God can give us a cheerful attitude. I won't choose to complain, be bleak and sit on my handful of thorns while God opens up a new day for me, everyday.


"Whatsoever things are true, noble, pure, lovely, of good report, virtuous and praiseworthy, I will think on these things . . . " pp. Philippians 4:8


~April Boyer (c)Oct. 2008

It is the author's hope that you will glean encouragement for writing and in obeying God's plan for you. Enjoy this e-zine.
April Boyer is a free lance writer in mid Ohio, wife, mother of two and Gramma Apple to two precious gems. She has published more than 47 articles in regional and national magazines and newspapers, and additional devotionals in e-zines. She is the retired founder and director of the 6-year old Ashland Area Christian Writer's Guild, and has printed a handbook, How to Establish a Christian Writer's Group, available for sale through her website http://aprilboyer.com. Pages on the website include her own writing services, writer's tips, encouragement, inspiration and a Bible study. Please mail requests or questions to April through her website contact page.