White House Blessings: Week 5

Pretty soon, it'll be easier to track Kaylee's age in months instead of weeks. It's going quick. This week, I have had many thoughts, but nothing that I have really thought would flow if I tried to put it on paper, but I will try. As many of you probably know, we have had a horrible wild fire here in Colorado Springs. We are thankful to be safely located on the other side of town from the fire, but feel deep sympathy for those who have endured the trials of evacuating the area and the many who actually lost their homes. This morning, in church, we were reminded that trials should generate joy because we know we can grow and persevere as our faith is tested. I have seen this in my own life these past several weeks and I have seen it in the lives of some in this city. However, I have also seen a more disappointing part of me through those who are dealing with the heartache of the fire as well. Immediately when houses started burning, facebook and the news were full of people voicing the need to pray, which is what was needed, but what I saw were many running to God when things were getting tough. I can't necessarily say whether these individuals are committed to the Lord and prayer on a daily basis, but I know, as I observed this, I was convicted that I often do the same thing. As things get a little easier with Kaylee and my health improves, I find a very real battle to continue on faithfully toward the things the Lord has called me to and taught me during this time. There is a great deceiver, who quickly comes as the waves calm, and tries to tell us that these things (like coming to the Lord in prayer with each moment of our day or filling our minds with His unfailing Word or surrendering our fears and trusting in Him) were not what helped us get through the trial and are definitely not necessary for daily life. He tries to tell us we have a pretty good handle on life by ourselves. Yet, obedience is what the Lord requires and if we are obedient, He provides in the temptation to drift away. In obedience, He is glorified and joy and blessings come as well.