It's easy to get caught up in the wilderness experience and the hardship seasons and miss God in the challenges. I know; I still struggle to see Him and acknowledge His presence in the journey.
As I reflect on the children of Israel going through the wilderness and how the Lord provided a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night, I can't help but look back in my own life at the hard seasons and see that the hands of God provided for me as well. The problem is that the darkness limits our vision, and all we can see are the areas of lack, and we miss the times of provision. We miss it because it doesn't fit the prayer petition that we have been lifting to our heavenly Father.
If you read the account of the Israelites, it would seem that they didn't appreciate all the victories and provisions God made available to them. It seems as if thanksgiving was not always a consideration for God's goodness. They murmured and complained about everything; sometimes we are like that, or I can be like that (smile)
As I write this to you, I feel a sense of gratitude rising in my spirit because God has been faithful and will continue to be so. This month of August 2024 holds a special place in my heart. In the past two weeks, God's faithfulness has shone through this valley experience, and I can't help but be thankful for what He is doing.
Recognizing God's faithfulness in drought has to come from a heart that understands that whether it's seed time or harvest, as long as we are children of God, we are exhorted to give God thanks in everything. Whether the miracle is big or small or we think it's on time, a simple thank you, Lord, is sufficient. If that is all we can say, then let's start there.
The Lord is my strength and shield. I trust him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving. Psalm 28:7
When I am in this mode, gratitude and thanksgiving flow from my heart, and I am encouraged during this period. Maybe you can identify. The Holy Spirit causes us to look back and see that God has always been there; his faithfulness extends beyond our expectations. At that moment, like me, your spirit may soar, even a tiny bit and a flicker of a smile crosses your face as you recall where you have been and how God delivered. Our path is lightened by that memory, giving us the strength to continue the journey.
I hope we will be women and people who are grateful for God's sustaining power and are aware of His presence in every season of our lives. He alone opens doors, grants us favor, gives us wisdom, shows us His grace, makes the impossible possible, fights for us, and guarantees us victory.
He knows the season we are in, and He is walking the journey with you and providing the necessary resources. Continue to trust Him and remember His faithfulness.
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