"I write your address in pencil because your family is always on the move," my loved one said pointedly. The words stung for a moment, even though I knew they were true. In the course of our marriage, Marty and I have packed up and moved many times. Sometimes the moves were exciting, others painful. Always, moving required faith and a lot of work. I am tired of moving and I sometimes feel as though we are tent dwellers.
Most of the time, I rest assured in the fact that my future rests with God. Other days, however, I confess my heart grows heavy as I ponder the uncertainties before me. On days like today, when my heart desperately yearn for a permanent home, I lay myself humbly before God. I ask for strength. I beg for assurance. And in His love, I am gently reminded that my home lies with Him. I am "looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God." (Hebrews 11:10 NIV)
But today, I wait in my tent. Somewhere between the reality of what has been and the dream of what tomorrow shall bring is where you will find me camped. Only God knows when or if I shall be instructed to pull up stakes. As I wait on His plans for our family to unfold, my eyes are fixed on my Heavenly Father. He has a history of taking care of tent dwellers like me. Looking through my Bible, I find that I am in good company.
Like Abraham, one who picked up his tent and followed God to a new land, I hope to be found faithful as I wait for God's direction and provision. And though I am not exactly comfortable in my circumstances, I am slowly learning to place my security in God alone. For "unless the LORD builds the house, the builder labors in vain." (Psalm 127:1 NIV)
Heavenly Father,
You are the One true God. Your plans for us are always good. At times, we cling too tightly to the temporary things of this world. Help us to submit every area of our lives to you. See in us those places where we might be hanging on too tightly, and help us to trust in You alone.
-Amen
Reflection: How are you a tent dweller?
This is one of those posts that has to be chewed on awhile. For you, it is your house. For me, it is my mental and emotional comfort zones. Both are "tents".
ReplyDeleteYeah, I have to ponder and stew in this one. Good stuff, my friend, very good stuff.
We are in a "tent" of waiting. Waiting on God's provision, waiting on God to employ my husband in the physical, waiting on income, waiting ... thanks for the encouragement today.
ReplyDeleteThanks ladies..it's good to know I am not the only one in a tent these days. <3
ReplyDeleteMany live in tents for all seasons: physical, emotional and mentally. I too am living in a tent; my tent has been the canvas of good friends that have allowed me to stay in there home when my home sold while looking for another home. It has been a blessing all the way around as I am able to help them financially and they are helping me so that I will not make a quick decision. I am seeking God's will and direction for my next steps here on earth. Thank you for the words of encouragement and inspiration.
ReplyDeleteMuch Love to you. <3
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