Aug. 31, 2010
 
DEVOTION: Hard to Tell
 
By Beth Bondurant
 
When one is in the midst of struggle and pain... it's hard to tell that God's blessings are continually being poured out.
 
When the sky is black and the winds are roaring past the trees and landscape... it's hard to tell God's comfort and peace surrounds us.
 
When the torrential rains are coming down and water rises significantly "close to home"... it's hard to tell that God's calming hand is upon us.
 
When thousands die from lack of food and essential resources... it's hard to tell that God's goodness and mercy fills us up.
 
"You're blessed when you're at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and his rule.
 
You're blessed when you feel you've lost what is most dear to you. Only then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you.
 
You're blessed when you're content with just who you are—no more, no less. That's the moment you find yourselves proud owners of everything that can't be bought.
 
You're blessed when you've worked up a good appetite for God. He's food and drink in the best meal you'll ever eat.
 
You're blessed when you care. At the moment of being 'care-full,' you find yourselves cared for.
 
You're blessed when you get your inside world—your mind and heart—put right. Then you can see God in the outside world.
 
You're blessed when you can show people how to cooperate instead of compete or fight. That's when you discover who you really are, and your place in God's family."
 
Even with these marvelous assurances that God is with us and continually blessing us, it's still HARD TO TELL.
 
O God... help me when I am in the midst of tremendous stress to "hear" your words of wisdom and comfort. As I breathe in your Spirit of peace and whisper your calm promises, soothe my heart and mind. As I wait and rest... strengthen my body. As I seek direction and meaning... COME and walk with me. Blessings don't come easy to my guilty and chaotic actions O Lord... I am in need of your peace. Help me understand. I want to sing and rejoice and KNOW your love when it's HARD TO TELL.