Who am I? A wife for almost 40 years. A mom for over 36 years. A sister and a friend, of course. Each of these help describe me. But, even more, I have been a Christian since accepting Him as my Savior when I was 12 years old and, this truth defines each area of my life. I have enjoyed some mountain top experiences but have been through some very deep valleys as well. Valleys of incredible grief and even pits of depression. However, most of my days are ordinary, routine kind of days. But in every one of my days, God has been faithful. He has walked with me whatever the day. He strengthens, comforts, encourages and blesses me with life "most abundant."

A favorite life verse: The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. John 10:10

Why do I write? Though not quite as private as my dad, I am definitely my father's daughter. I find it difficult to share. And to let others in. But I do love to write. I love to put words into sentences and sentences in paragraphs that help express my thoughts. I hope my words help me share my heart. Share the life that God has given me and all that He has done for me and through me. I write with the hope of giving Him at least a bit of the glory He is due.

A verse to guide my writing: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ. I Peter 1:7

The Flu, Hints of Spring and A Lesson Learned

Posted on By jennifer
Colonial Williamsburg

Time to look back at February.  This shortest month of the year has been “long” for me.  I think the flu is to blame.  The month started off with our being able to visit with our family from Florida.  They were traveling for a school field trip and we met up with them.  It has been over five years since our last visit, so it was especially nice to be together again.  I started feeling “less than my best” while I was away.  Then the flu officially “hit” when I got home. 

A new Bible study started at church.  I said “yes” to an opportunity where I would normally say “no” – trying to stretch myself! – and I also saw God open a wonderful door for me.  I hope to share more about that later.  And, in the meantime, I got rid of the flu…..only to have it return.  Twice.  Goodness.

I am looking forward to a fresh month – and, hopefully, spring.  I was downtown (that’s DC around here) today – and the forsythia is already blooming!  Nothing speaks spring – and joy! – to my heart like the first yellow blooms of the season.  The predictable routine of nature is a smile to my soul and a perfect picture of God’s faithfulness.

One lesson learned this month.  A week or so ago, the FMF prompt was “Why.”  I was not able to post that Friday (um…the flu??!) but I pondered that thought and prayed over it several times.  For most of my life, I never asked God, “why?”  About anything.  I always thought it was arrogant and, in some way, even offensive to an always sovereign God.  I’ve been told as much, as well, along the way.  Who am I to question God?

And, while I would never suggest shaking a fist and demanding God explain Himself to me…I do not believe my Heavenly father is offended when my feeble heart just cannot make sense of things.  When my heart is crushed and broken.  When my dream is shattered.  When circumstances appear senseless, useless or all hope seems to be lost.  When I humble myself before Him and wonder “why?”….He is a loving Heavenly father that knows my heart and longs to comfort, help and heal.

Any parent of a toddler knows “the game” of why!  A question is asked, the answer is given, only to responded to with why?  And the whys continue – until the adult finally says something similar to “just because.”  No need for further explanation.  And the child confidently accepts whatever great mystery of moment – simply because they trust.  In the same way, God may reveal some of the answers.  Other times, He gently answers with a “just because” but I can trust Him with confidence just as my toddler did.  That truth brought me comfort this month.  I am not a weak person or a faithless Christian when I feel overwhelmed.  I am human.  And my Heavenly Father knows me. Knows my heart.  He patiently loves me and I can trust Him.

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Comments (4)

  1. Beautiful thoughts, Jennifer. My son got injured recently. He kept asking God, "Why?" I wonder if sometimes it's a way of expressing our confusion to God? Sometimes, it's an honest question. He doesn't seem to answer it often. At least not directly. As long as we don't get stuck there, is it a terrible question to ask our loving Father?

    I have been more like you. I don't often ask God "Why?" I'm of the nature to accept that it's His plan, and it's not mine to question. But, there are times, where in my heart of hearts, I have questioned Him. I'm so glad He's big enough to handle those questions and faithful and loving enough to bear with me as I grapple with Him.

  3. I don't think God ever is resistant to our questions… as long as we take them to Him. Doesn't mean we will always get the answers we want, but it does mean we get Jesus… and that, I guess, is really all we need. thanks for your post (and PS I'm glad February is almost gone too!)

  4. Praying for a healthy spring for you. I love the colors of Spring. I ask God why all the time. I'm like a broken record. He keeps reassuring me of His timing and faithfulness. Blessings!

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