Busy, Busy, Busy

The last few days have had their share of challenges. By 8 o’clock Tuesday morning we had two inches of water covering our bedroom floor because the sump pump could not keep up with the falling rain. You probably have an idea how I spent my day . . . and the next day too.

Last night we met for our Bible study. As we shared prayer requests, I mentioned my challenges, but I did so giving thanks. While I had not planned to clean our bedroom it is drying out and even clean under the bed! Things could always be worse!

Our study concluded with the question, “What hinders you from living out God’s will and plan for your life?” My response was one word: BUSYNESS. With six kids and an occasional disaster, we always have lots of activity to keep us occupied. Sometimes the pace of life just doesn’t seem to let up; I respond to the urgent instead of God’s best.

This morning the house is quiet; the older kids are off to school and the boys are still sleeping. That’s when God put the pieces together for me. Things could always be worse and the pace of life won’t slow down just because it is, but He is still with me.

While Jeremiah was still locked up in jail, a second Message from God was given to him: . . .

Jeremiah certainly had it far worse than I did. Not only was he in prison, but his prophecy concerning the destruction of Jerusalem was beginning to happen. If I had been Jeremiah I might have gotten lost in self pity and missed hearing God. Fortunately, Jeremiah was still attentive to God’s voice.

"This is God's Message, the God who made earth, made it livable and lasting, known everywhere as God: 'Call to me and I will answer you. I'll tell you marvelous and wondrous things that you could never figure out on your own.'”
Jeremiah 33:1-3 (MsgB)

The message given to Jeremiah goes on to foretell not only of the restoration of Jerusalem but also the promise of the Messiah—Jesus! If Jeremiah had focused on himself and his problems then he would have missed out on hearing of the hope and promise that was to come! God’s mercy was promised even as His judgment was being poured out.

So the next time you find yourself like me, overcome by difficult circumstances and/or your hectic schedule, remember: God will meet with you right there, if you keep your heart open to listen for His voice. Stop crying about your problems and take time to listen. Not only may God show you that things could always be worse, He may also reassure you of the good things to come!