August 12: The Theology of Rest

What perfect timing!! This lesson comes on the morning that we move Jennifer to Nashville and watch our little bird leave our nest and make a new one of her own. Naturally, I have moments when it hits me that she won't be close by, but all my misgivings are cradled in a firm confidence that she is going to be in the capable hands of our Lord. From her birth, I knew that God was actually her parent, and that we were just the caretakers that He chose to raise her for Him so she could be a effective tool for Him in her adulthood. I pray that we have been worthy of His trust!!

Over the years, I have tested some promises from scripture that I'm leaning on today:

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and donot be afraid. John 14:27

Rejoice in the Lord always...Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Phillipians 4:4-7

I prayed for this child, and the Lord has granted me what I asked of Him. So now I give [her] to the LORD. For [her] whole life [she] will be given over to the LORD. I Samuel 1:27-28

Jesus, thank You for the trust that You earn everyday by being the One who directs our lives in such a way that we have "an understanding confidence in You." Thank You that our sanctification "works out into rest in God which means a blessed oneness with God, which makes us not only blameless in Your sight, but also a deep joy to You." I've found that this also gives us a deep joy in You!!