When Ray and I got married we left from our honeymoon and went straight to New Orleans for him to go back to seminary. I took a few classes including a Ministers' wives class. Trying to learn more about the students, during the first class our instructor asked the question, "If you could be anywhere else in the world, where would you rather be?" I was near the end of the class in responding and worried about what I would say. I heard responses like Hawaii on vacation, Idaho at home with family, and exotic sounding missions fields. When she finally got to me it occurred to me where I wanted to be. I said, "I've only been married for eight days so I can't think of anywhere else I'd rather be than here with my husband." The class roared with laughter and I think everyone was glad to hear from a young newlywed. (I had just turned twenty years old.)
Recently, I heard someone ask the question, why am I here in this town? I had no earth shattering response except, "Because this is where God has you right now." As I think about why we are where we are, I couldn't be more content. Sure it seems life might be a little easier if we were close to family, or out in the country or, blah, blah, blah. What keeps coming back is - this is where God has us now. If He leads us somewhere else, that's where we should be, but for now I am content.
I would like to encourage you to thank God for where you are today. If He leads you and your family somewhere else, then rejoice. But for now, be content and let others know of you satisfacton in the Lord.
4 comments:
Thank you for writing this - it is just the reminder I need. Our family is in an "interesting time" right now with so many uncertainties. My husband and I try to live today and not worry about tomorrow, but sometimes we lose sight. I think up my own plan and forget that God is in control and it's not my job to figure out what He has in store for us. Thank you for the reminder to be content with where He has us. He is teaching us to completely trust Him for everything, more now than ever before. He has sent His "earthly angels" our way recently and this is teaching us humility and gratefulness. I'm thankful that He is Jehovah Jireh.
I enjoy reading your blog!
God bless you and your family,
Jennifer :-)
Thanks for commenting. Isn't God good? In times of struggle He still reminds us that He with us always and active in our lives.
Normally my husband reads your blog and shares the stories with me. Today I was in his "favorites" and decided to browse. It has been a rather trying week in ministry for us. He is the pastor of a church in Virginia. Today I was sitting around wondering, "Why are we here? What is it we need to do? What is God teaching me? Should I feel so discouraged after going to worhip and hearing an encouraging message on unity?" Thanks for the reminder that God is in control and I simply need to be content where I am planted. I often give this advice but sometimes need to hear it myself! God Bless.
Hi April,
Being a pastor's wife has unique challenges. God is always faithful to see us through. Please feel free to email me anytime you'd like. lori@nourishedintheword.org.
Lori
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