Sometimes I have trouble seeing the "big picture" in life. Is it just me? ;)
It's easy to see the right here, right now...to allow my focus to dwell solely on the present. To allow emotions and feelings to dictate my reactions. Recently, while doing my daily devotion, something I came across really stood out. In summary it said, "Over and over again, the Bible begins a person's story by telling where they came from, who their parents were, and what land they originally inhabited. This is all to show that 'our story begins long before we do.'"
Before Abraham ever lay Isaac on the altar, before his marriage to Sarah, before he traveled to Egypt, and before he ever heard the voice of God...God was planning his story. God knew exactly how He was going to use Abraham, how He would bless him and the mark he would leave on all nations and in the plan of salvation; but God also knew that Abraham was only a part of something much bigger. Just like Abraham, and so many other important men and women of the Bible, there is a BEFORE me..and an AFTER me. All of the stories that came before mine and all of the ones I've lived so far play a part in God's "big picture". Wow! It is a blessing just to be used, chosen and included in God's plan.
I find myself sometimes asking, "Why?" or "Why us?" or "Why now?" When I'm reminded that my focus should be on the "big picture" that my human eyes can't fully see, I think, "Why not?"
God himself does see the whole picture and He knows why. I can trust that. He has never ever let me down. I can look back at uncertain and difficult times in my life and see answers now to so many of the "why's", and how those hard things made some amazing things possible. I've seen evidence of ways that God affected the future of our children, developed their character, made opportunities to use their gifts and hearts for Him and above all grew their faith and brought them closer to Him. He grew me too. He is so patient with us, friends. We don't deserve His love and there's nothing we can do to earn it...but He gives it anyway.
It was difficult at times to start all over 3 years ago. God made me lonely when it was necessary to teach me not to hold onto anything or anyone more than my Heavenly Father. He loves us enough to empty us so that we can be filled with Him.
I share part of my story to let you know that you're not alone. In confusing and uncertain times, when you can't see the whole picture..rest in the assurance that He does. So, we can be at peace being just a "piece" of the puzzle.
My family is starting an important new chapter in our story. God has already written it. I don't yet know the "Why's", but am reminded by His word that God knows the plans He has for us and for our future, so I can say "Why not?" and know that in time we will be able to look back and laugh and say, "That's why!"
The unknown can be a scary place, but don't be afraid to take a step of faith. Rest in the knowledge that your "unknown" is known to God.
