“Teach us to number our days and recognize how few they are; help us to spend them as we should.”  Psalm 90:12

Blessed Beyond Measure! Survived 2020 – Trusting God for 2021

And, so began our 2020 annual letter to friends and family. In August 2021 my precious Russell went Home. Trusting God for 2021? The truth is that not one of us knows when our life on earth will end. Not one of us is not guaranteed one more breath.

The letter was written at a time when we realized what we had been missing: visiting hospitals and nursing homes, shopping where we wanted, hugging a friend, and dropping in on a neighbor. We were starved for hugs, laughter, freedom, and unmasked smiles.

Personally, I wonder as 2023 soars past, do we appreciate the freedoms we now have? Take a minute to consider how we must make every minute count.

Draw closer to the Lord. Do you know for sure that your relationship with Jesus Christ is secure? Is he truly your Savior and your Lord? Are you walking in His ways daily? This is absolutely the most important issue to be settled today.

Would God have you settle a relationship? Are you harboring any resentment, anger, or unforgiving spirit against anyone? Is your heart free of greed or selfish ambition? Ask Him to create in you a clean heart. Go the extra mile. Smile and be kind. Repent and restore fellowships. (Psalm 51:10-19)

Pray more fervently for each family member and friend. Use their names, and picture each one as you pray. Ask God to stir the hearts of those who do not know Him personally; plead for healing of soul and body for others and ourselves. Take (make) time each day. (Jeremiah 33:3)

Here is some additional food for thought as we consider others.

Appreciate more fully those who care for us and tend to our needs. Hold them up in prayer. The obvious: health care workers, first responders, truckers, and transporters. Consider also mail carriers, trash haulers, grocery personnel, convenience store workers, and on and on. A sincere smile can do wonders.

I carry little bags of candies with Scripture to give to waiters, clerks, and such. Sometimes I fix a bag and leave it on top of my trash can on trash day. Or in the mailbox or for the delivery guy. Recently God impressed upon me to silently pray specifically for those persons as I leave a treat bag. I ask Him to draw them to Jesus.

From Isaiah 40 – Comfort my people, says the Lord. They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

And Praise God from Whom all blessings flow! Praise Him when all is well. Praise Him when your world tumbles before you. He alone has a plan. He knows what is best. He can be trusted.

Lastly, I pray for you. I ask God to fill your every breath with His spirit. I pray that you will know beyond a shadow of a doubt that when that last breath is taken, you will be with Him. Be sure, be very sure.

Love and hugs,