Great Expectations in God’s Hands
by Kim Robinson
(Philippians 1:20, NIV).
While I had paused this summer to ponder, rest, read, admire—time, with its unyielding gears and chains, rumbled on.
I didn’t order Samaritan’s Purse shoeboxes for my church, though I meant to.
I didn’t edit my devotional memoir, though I meant to.
After a busy spring, I had asked the Lord to give me an editor for my manuscript.
God hears the cry of our hearts, but he responds to our needs.
He knew I was weary, so he gave me a space to ponder, rest, read, and admire during those sunny months. Sitting amidst my little porch garden, I watched the fountain lift its spray to the thirsty bees. I admired red trumpet flowers cascading from their pot, making drunk the various insects who lingered there. I read books that touched my heart and refreshed my soul, pausing to write reviews of gratitude.
When that season was fulfilled, the Lord tucked me into an active critique group and connected me with a sister in Christ to exchange books for editing. Wow!
When God is ready to move us forward, he is good at it!
Like all seasons, I see autumn now passing by.
Instead of imposing guilt over a seemingly unproductive summer, the Lord admonishes me to simply be grateful. Grateful for times of rest. Grateful for times of provision and seasons of new opportunities.
What about the shoeboxes?
My pastor laughed when I apologized for not having pre-made shoeboxes ready for the congregation. “I am preaching today about active faith—choosing to physically give to His work, engaging body and soul! I’m glad you didn’t make it easy. They have to find a shoebox to fill. I like that.”
Funny how God has different agendas than we do.
Now insightful edits are expanding my writing, and helpful classes are redirecting my author expectations. I am surrendering them anew to the Lord, and reaching for my laptop.
Friend, as autumn cloaks our world with fire and frost, may the Lord reveal any false expectations that have ground you down. May he refresh your heart and vision to complete the task he has set before you—with joy!
Father, I trust that you will guide me in your way. Today, let’s walk together, as I tuck my hand in yours. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
God is moving, and He wants us to notice. That is author Kim Robinson’s passion, whether for agnostic or believing readers, middle schoolers or octogenarians. A retired teacher, Kim currently lives in Oregon, where she is delighted to serve the Lord as writer, copy editor, and encourager of faith.
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1 Comment
Thank you for the encouragement, Kim. You are right. God is always moving and His timing is always perfect.