DEAR GOD: Holding Pattern in Your Care~

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Be Still and Know I am God….Psalm 46:10

“Holding Pattern in Your Care”
C D Swanson~

When we are in a “holding pattern” it can be difficult to stay still and let “God be God.”  Humans have a tendency to lack patience and the ability to have a “wait and see” attitude.  We tend to rush through decisions and want immediate gratification or answers for whatever it is we are looking for.  However – that is when we should lay it all down, walk away and look up to the One who has all of the answers.  The One who knows what is best for us, and the One who plans and guides each step of our way.

We’ve been waiting for the longest time to see if we should be making a move out of state.  It’s been going on for a while now, oh – close to 2 years or more.  Friends have begun to refer to us as the “couple who talks about it and does nothing about it.”  LOL – Well, that’s okay.  Only if you are engaged in an intimate relationship with the LORD, Jesus Christ would you or could you possibly understand this behavior.

God tells us to rest in Him.  To wait upon Him. To trust Him. And to know His voice.  Sure we have free will. And we could move if we want. But, it doesn’t feel right.  And it doesn’t seem the right time.  So we are still waiting – for God’s timing, and perfect plan and will for our lives.

Evidently at this time. This is where we are supposed to be.  We have been here for 39 years.  And I love it here.  So – it is easy for me to wait, as I really don’t want to go!  But – I feel we will eventually.  And God is “holding us in this pattern” for a reason.  One we cannot see or grasp at this time.  But it will eventually become crystal clear.  And with clarity and with faith I wait.   Until He waves us to “where, when, how and why.”

If you are in a holding pattern right now.  Whatever your circumstances are, trust in Him, the One that holds you in the palm of His hand.  Trust Him to lead you and guide you and show you the way. He always will.

Proverbs 3:5-8 says just that – Trust in God with all of your heart and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.  Don’t be wise in your own eyes, love Him and keep from evil, and it shall be health for your navel, and marrow for your bones. 

Wait. Reflect. Trust. And love – that’s what you do when you are in a “holding pattern.”  Eventually – it will all become clear.

“LORD, thank You for guiding us and holding us up through all kinds of adversities, and through all kinds of storms, may we always be aware of You and Your plans and will for our lives, in Jesus name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Comfort Is Only Found In You~

"The God of All Comfort" - April 28th, 2020 Live Stream Devotional ...

Let’s delve into the rich meaning of Philippians 4:19. This verse, penned by the apostle Paul, resonates across time and speaks to both the early Christians and us today, especially in these days which presents with chaos and turbulence throughout the world. We will find an amass amount of comfort knowing and believing in His Word, and His promises. When we focus on God’s great glory and love for us, it becomes a lot easier to navigate in a world of uncertainty – because the LORD is real and His love and mercy never waver. In a world of disappointments and harsh evil – the LIGHT of the LORD shines and brings elements of peace and certainty to our lives.

The Context:

Paul wrote these words while imprisoned, facing adversity and uncertainty. Despite his circumstances, he exudes joy and contentment. His confidence lies not in earthly abundance but in God’s unwavering provision. His countenance was always steady and confident in God’s love and provisions, even at the darkest moments in his life. He knew that the light and love of the LORD would bring him through everything he was going through. That no matter how bleak or hopeless the circumstances, he knew in his heart that the LORD would and could change the situation he was in by a wave of his hand and mercy. As it is proven and written so many times in the Holy Word of the LORD.

The Verse:

“And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19, ESV)

What It Means to God’s Children:

  1. Divine Provision: Paul assures the Philippians that God will meet their needs. This extends beyond material necessities to spiritual guidance, comfort, and emotional sustenance.
  2. Generosity: The context reveals that the Philippians were generous in their giving. Paul’s confidence in God’s provision stems from their sacrificial hearts.

Relevance Today:

  1. Trust in God: Like the Philippians, we too will always face challenges. This verse reminds us to trust God’s faithfulness even when circumstances seem overwhelming and completely dreary. Trust in the LORD and He will always guide your path. (Proverbs 3:5-8)
  2. Contentment: Our needs may differ, but God’s promise remains. Contentment lies not in abundance but in knowing that God provides according to His riches. And all that He supplies and gives is according to His will and purpose for us in this lifetime.

Morals and Reflective Questions:

  • Generosity: How can we cultivate a spirit of generosity, knowing that God blesses those who give?
  • Priorities: Are we seeking God’s Kingdom first?
  • Belief: Are we trusting that our needs will follow?

Meditative Thoughts:

  • God’s Abundance: Picture His vast riches, flowing toward you.
  • Surrender: Release anxiety; God knows your needs intimately.

Supporting Scriptures:

  • Matthew 6:33But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
  • Psalm 23:1: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”

Closing Unified Prayer:

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your promise to provide. Help us trust You, knowing that our needs are met in completely in and through Christ. May we live generously and seek Your kingdom above all else, today and all the days of our lives, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Final Moral Takeaway:

God’s provision transcends circumstances. Trust Him, live generously in His love, live by His commandments and doctrine as you go through this lifetime, honor Him and obey Him, and you will find contentment in His abundant grace all the days you remain here on earth. As you study His word and these verses, may they bring peace to you, and may you exalt and glorify Him daily…

All glory and honor and praise to You O’ LORD!