Saturday, August 20, 2011 - Feeling Boxed In

"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. 

Each day has enough trouble of its own." 

Matthew 6:34

Thank You, God, for boxes on moving day.

     Moving in the heat of an Arkansas August is an experience I wouldn't wish on too many people. Keeping a house cool and fly-less is a mission impossible with the doors opening constantly. On top of the heat, the rental house and the new house seem to be conspiring against us. We've tried to empty the house we rented, but I think people are dropping off boxes and items in the storage room when we're not looking. Yesterday I ran by there after buying groceries to fill the car with what we thought would be the "last of it" only to realize it will take at least one more trip. Meanwhile, the new house is a Lernaean Hydra of boxes: when we empty one, two more appear, filled with miscellaneous items nobody knows where to put. And the phone calls and paper work after a move are enough to make Tom lose the rest of his hair. However, since we're eager to settle in, we keep at it one carload, one box, one room, one phone call, one errand at a time, trying to remember to be thankful for the "stuff" God allows us to have, use, and share.  

     Today we face the choice of opening the box sitting in our way and dealing with its contents, or staring at the garage full of boxes and sitting down in discouragement. We can work or worry, praise or pout, conquer a "box" or quit. Jesus taught us to handle life one day at a time because each day brings new boxes troubles, of its own. 

"Wealth and honor come from You; You are the ruler of all things. 

In Your Hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. 

Now, our God, we give You thanks, and praise Your glorious Name."

1 Chronicles 29:12

"Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, 

since as members of one body you were called to peace. 

And be thankful." 

Colossians 3:15

"I call to the LORD, Who is worthy of praise, and I am saved from my enemies." 

2 Samuel 22:4

Father, strengthen us to keep our eyes on the day in front of us. We call on You to provide everything we'll need to deal with its contents. Show us how to distribute what You've given us. Direct our thoughts and attitudes about what You allow into our lives today. May we let Your Peace rule our hearts when we want to throw down our swords and give up on fighting tireless enemies. "You are the Source of our strength; You are the Strength of my life! I lift my hands in total praise to You!" 

In the Name of Jesus Who taught how to deal with the guaranteed troubles (and boxes) we would face each day.

Inspired by Live Loved by Max Lucado

photo from Google images