Sunshine *

I'm treasuring the sunshine, *
its sparkling, shining rays * *
have kissed these golden stars, * * *
and now their faces glow * * * *

Bottled up with lighted smile, * * *
overflowing in endless glee
they tell me of the joy of day * *
Teaching blinded eyes to see

joy in today.
joy in every day.

Pattern of Perfection

His purposes will ripen fast,

Unfolding every hour;

The bud may have a bitter taste,

But sweet will be the flower.

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Blind belief is sure to err

And scan His work in vain;

God is His own interpreter,

And He will make it plain.

~William Cowper

exerpt from“God Moves in a Mysterious Way,” 1774

For the last several months I have worked on an easy, yet involved knitting project with much trial and error. One could say I “bit off more than I could chew” with this particular project. I have knitted, re-knitted, attached, detached, ripped out, snipped, pulled, and tugged, with hopes that all would turn out right. To put it bluntly, although it has taken form and now shows signs of promise (after I decided to modify the pattern my own way), there is a good chance it may not turn out as I first envisioned. When finished, my sweater may end up worn once and then left in the deep confines of my closet—one of those humble “learning” projects left to be forgotten about. However, I hope it will not be so.

In contrast, as I think about the stitches and rows and the slow development of this piece as it takes form, I am reminded of God’s expert hand in shaping our lives. Unlike me, inexperienced and unsure of the end result, He has planned every curve and has a perfect design in mind. Rather than making adjustments along the way, He has established His plan and intentions for me long before.

How encouraging to know the Lord has a purpose for every little frill, twist, turn, and loop in life. We can rest secure in the knowledge that He knows what lies ahead. We can draw comfort because He is the perfect guide; He leads us—more often, carries us—through all of life, strengthening and preparing us for what He has in store. We can trust Him because He is our light.

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Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices; my flesh also dwells secure. For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol, or let your holy one see corruption. You make known to me that path of life; in Your presence is the fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasure forevermore.

~Psalm 16:9-11

For You are my rock and my fortress; and for Your Name’s sake you lead me and guide me; . . . Into Your hand I commit my spirit; You have redeemed me, O Lord, faithful God.

~Psalm 31:3, 5

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Lord, how easy it is to say, “Into Your hand I commit my spirit,” or “I Surrender All,” but give me a heart which truly bows to You each day, desiring Your will and Your ways as my own. Let me give myself wholeheartedly and without reserve to further the glory of YOUR name; help me to walk in obedience on the path You have designed, trusting in your perfect plan and knowing that what You choose is what is best.