Friday, June 24, 2016

     This month has flown by! It's hard to believe I've been out of school for almost a month. I've been visiting friends, picking blueberries to store in the freezer, and doing some baking that I enjoy so much. Mark and I just got back from camping in Indiana too.
     The grandkids are visiting, and staying overnight, which is one of my favorite pastimes.
A revelation came to me yesterday, after sending one of the grandsons home after a three-day visit this week. I understand now why my mother-in-law stated that women should have their children and grandchildren when they're young!  Ha! The grandkids are so much fun to have over! I love watching them express their ideas and interact with one another, however, I was certainly ready to rest this week!
     I've spoken to several people in the last few weeks about my book. One lady I saw today reminded me how she'd bought my book at Walgreen's for her sister who was battling cancer. Her sister commented that she really enjoyed my book. I needed to hear that so badly because I was starting to wonder if I was really helping people or not with my book. Another friend told me on Facebook that she'd gotten a book to give to her co-worker who needed to hear the message. My own cousin enjoyed reading my book also. Authors never know where their books will end up. So thank you Lord for encouraging me today with the exact words I needed to hear! I must continue to bless all I can with the good news of the gospel. 
      I'm also trying to tie up many loose ends; like getting photos in albums, perhaps painting the bathroom, and the other 101 things I could think of to do while I'm off for the summer. Doing is good, but must not precede hearing from the Master! So many things can draw our attention away from what is truly important. Jesus spoke to Martha in Luke10:41-42 concerning this same principle. "And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things; but one thing is needful; and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her." Jesus was telling Martha to quit being careful and troubled (worried) about serving Him. He wanted Martha to choose to sit at His feet, like her sister, Mary, had done and hear His words of life.
     This is a perfect illustration of our lives at times. How often have we rushed to get things accomplished, only to find ourselves so worn out and frustrated at the end of the day?  We must first choose to be in His presence, hear Him guide us and speak words of life to us to start our own journeys that day.  He knows all we need to know about every situation and circumstance we find ourselves in daily. He's the one we need to spend time with FIRST!
     So today, I hope you were encouraged by this post. I encourage myself also as I write. :) Have a wonderful summer, full of fun, sun, and THE SON! May you rest in Him and allow Him to work on your behalf. His love for you never fails. His grace is all you need! Until next time, keep trusting Jesus for your every concern. He loves it when you draw on His wisdom, provision, and care. Peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.