Memories & Lessons

“So the Lord God appointed a plant and it grew up over Jonah to be a shade over his head to deliver him from his discomfort. And Jonah was extremely happy about the plant. But God appointed a worm when dawn came the next day, and it attacked the plant and it withered. And it came about when the sun came up that God appointed a scorching east wind, and the sun beat down on Jonah’s head so that he became faint and begged with all his soul to die, saying, ‘Death is better to me than life.’ Then God said to Jonah, ‘Do you have good reason to be angry about the plant?’ And he said, ‘I have good reason to be angry, even to death.’” Jonah 4:5-8

Things happen in our lives that seem to make little sense. People come into our lives, help us grow and we love them and then sometimes they just drift off again. And then sometimes they drift right back in with messages that help us refocus, like this one I got yesterday from someone who needs prayer for his son.

“It has been a while since I have replied back to you. I have been getting your devotions for over 11 years now! Amazing that they came to me by accident from someone's computer who I received when taking over his IT position way back when. And now I am married with 3 kids. I am busy.”

But not one thing happens that escapes the watchful care of the Lord, even the stuff that doesn’t make any sense at the time. Next week I will start a new series around Philip Yancy’s old book, Disappointment With God. If you haven’t read it, you likely will want to.

Oh and if you have just one hour to spare, take time to think of just ten strange things that have occurred in your life that have taught you key lessons for His service!

Take care to understand His Word. Your servant and friend in Christ, Darlene

PS: New Request: For Kevin’s son. For me with a difficult situation. Praise: David for great health now! Leslie is growing stronger from chemo. Both Nancys growing stronger & more patient (one with chemo - the other recovering from serious head trauma). Pray for: Tim & Barb (need work & encouragement as they wait). Virgil’s family as they grieve his loss. Freddy (to come home & see his mom). Eddie (responding to chemo). Rachael (for hope & clarity of purpose). Adrian (many life changes); Isaias (family safety & his mission work in Philippines). Haiti survivors. God’s grace on USA. Wisdom for doctors caring for Doris, Poetry, Gary, Adrian and Jack.