Find rest in God’s care
The early-morning view from my office window brought with it color changes that announced the beginning of fall. Outside, I felt the crisp edge of the September air, and I glanced at the blooming, burgundy-and-purple chrysanthemums covering the area in my garden.
I paused for a few moments in silence and solitude. And I smiled, as I listened to the song of the birds greeting the new day. Then, I recalled a magazine article that I read depicting theologian, Martin Luther (1484-1546), and his bout with depression. It was nighttime, and it was purported that Luther was in deep despair. It seemed like he had nothing to look forward to except for disappointment and defeat, and he felt that his situation was hopeless.
But, suddenly, Luther heard the sound of a bird’s sweet song. Luther raised his eyes, looked outdoors and saw the tiny creature resting on a branch in a tree. Next, the bird tucked its little head under its tiny wing and peacefully, it went to sleep for the night.
Luther sat for a while, thinking about what he saw, and thereafter, he declared, “This little bird has had its supper and now is getting ready to go to sleep, quite content, never troubling itself as to what its food will be or where it will lodge in the morrow. Like David, it abides under the shadow of the Almighty. It sits on its little twig content and lets God care.”
The bird’s example of faith and trust in God gave Luther comfort and lifted his spirits. Thus, it enabled Luther to move ahead with his important life’s work. And God went on to use him in new and miraculous ways.
Do you know how much God loves and cares for you?
You’re so valuable and precious to Him. The Bible says: “Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?” (Matthew 6:26).
Maybe you have been through your share of struggles and challenges. But no matter where you are right now, even in the midst of difficult circumstances, in ways that you may not always see, or when you don’t understand what is happening, God is there, and He cares for you. Trust Him. Pray, for God will supply your needs and direct your steps.
Never give up, for God hasn’t given up on you. He has more blessings to bestow on you and is arranging wonderful things for your future.
So do not give way to discouragement and anxiety.
One unconstructive thought, can lead to another, and then another. For often, negative mindsets can prevent us from living our best lives. Decide now to release fears and worries into God’s capable hands. And then say with confidence, “With God by my side, the impossible is within reach,” “I can still fulfill my dreams,” and “God will open up new doors of opportunity and give me strength for any task.”
Then, move forward, giving your best effort, expecting to emerge better and stronger than you were in the past.
I think of Daniel in the Bible, a great man of patience, faith and prayer. The Lord did not prevent the wicked plotting of his adversaries, as Daniel was thrown in a den of hungry lions. Yet, at all costs, Daniel kept his trust and loyalty to God, and God sent an angel to protect him all through the night. In the morning, the King came to the den and called out to him, wondering if he were alive.
Daniel answered him saying “My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions’ mouths, that they have not hurt me” (Daniel 6:22).
Keep in mind, your present condition is not permanent. Setbacks are surmountable. And your problems will be resolved successfully, according to God’s best plan for you. A few months ago, we redecorated my youngest daughter’s room. She chose a floral wall border with a very bold, colorful pattern.
After we completed the room, I stood back, looked around and said, “Wow! It turned out better than I expected.” Hence, with God, that’s how your situation will turn out: Better than you expected!
So do your part; believe and trust God, for “We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose”
(Romans 8:28).
Last week, a dear reader sent me an encouraging poem from an unknown author that I’d like to share with you:
“When you’ve met some disappointment, And you’re tempted to feel blue, When your plans have all been side-tracked, Or some friend has proved untrue;
When you’re toiling and you’re struggling, At the bottom of the stairs, It will seem a bit like Heaven, Just to know that God cares!
Oh, this life is not all sunshine, Some days darkest clouds disclose, There’s a cross for every joy-bell, And a thorn for every rose,
But the cross is not so grievous, Nor the thorn the rosebud wears, And the clouds have silver linings, When we know that God cares!”
The next time you are outdoors enjoying the fresh air and see a little bird perched in a tree, consider God’s tender, loving care. He has a divine plan and He’s saying to you today: “Trust me.”
God knows how to take care of you. So find rest in His care.
Catherine Galasso-Vigorito’s nationally syndicated weekly column, “A New You,” has endeared her to readers across the country for over 15 years. In addition, Catherine is featured on television and radio where she inspires viewers and listeners by offering inspirational commentary, home decorating and entertaining ideas, plus DIY segments. She is the bestselling author of three books: A New You, God Will Do the Rest, and The Open Window. As a designer, her gift lines have been featured on QVC and she is a former Miss Connecticut USA.