Have I told You lately that I love You???

This week celebrates something that we aren't exactly celebrating- Tim has been out of work for 5 months. He's in construction, so it's not unusual to get laid off for a short time in the winter. But he has NEVER been out this long. And there doesn't look to be anything in the near future. (sigh) He's put out resumes, went to see people, and followed the scarce leads that have come in. But, in this economy, any place that isn't laying off employees has a hiring freeze. We are just one of many in this situation.



However, I think we are unique to many others because we have hope. Our hope is not in politicians' promises, the evening news, or the stimulus bill- our hope is in Christ. His promises are never empty!

He tells us: "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."



I wasn't fearful at all, really. We cut our budget to the bare bones & then some. I got a part time job. The input & output were almost equeal, but we made it. Then my hours were cut. The numbers weren't close anymore. But we made it. God is SO good, and He made it work!



Then came April. For the first time, I was anxious. I was so angry at myself. How could this be happening? I kept telling myself that I was putting my trust in the Lord, but the numbers.... oh, the numbers. I knew it was time to kick up my prayer.... not praying for the numbers to work, but praying for peace. Praying as in James 4:7- "abide therefore in God. Cast out the devil and he will flee from you."

Satan loves it when we are fearful. He is the prince of fear!



I prayed constantly for God to fill my heart so much that there was no room for Satan and his baloney. I won't lie... it took constant, serious prayer. Satan kept reminding me that 5 months is a long time and the job front wasn't looking any better than it did 5 months ago.



But God is soooo much bigger!!!



The fear is gone. And with the fear gone, God kept working in my life. He is the King of Miracles. Nothing is too big for him- especially our measly little budget.



I love You, Lord. Not because of what You do for me, but because of who You are. I don't deserve You, and that makes it even more amazing that You love me so much.



Thank you, God. I love You!!!!!