Black-eyed Peas
Cold weather calls for warm comfort foods. While I was growing up, the New Year’s habit in my family was to include the Southern tradition of black-eyed peas. Presumably this legume would ensure good luck in the coming months. Although we did not claim to be superstitious, it was a fun excuse to have black-eyed peas, “just in case.”
While I enjoy black-eyed peas, a few years ago I decided to give up on them. Superstition or not, the previous year had ended terribly for me, so discarding them seemed a good option, again, “just in case.”
This year we enjoyed yellow cornbread baked in a cast iron pan, accompanied with sliced ham and green beans. That’s about as traditional of a Southern New Year’s menu I was willing to serve.
In the Old Testament, Job 23:10 says, “The Lord knows the way that I take; when He has tested me, I shall come forth as gold.”
In the New Testament, Romans 8:28 gives this promise to those who are committed to the Lord through Jesus Christ: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”
I am learning to rely on the Lord with both my good and bad experiences because He is in charge, and He knows how best to refine me for His purposes. With that in mind, regarding the black-eyed peas, I’ll probably add them to my menu next January 1st!
We often forget that God is always in charge, always in control; whatever happens in our lives.
ReplyDeleteGod bless you, Barbara.
As humans, we tend to do things out of tradition or habit if our family has instilled those in us. As Christians, we know in our hearts that the only thing that truly makes a difference in our lives is trusting in our Lord. As Victor stated here, He is the only One in control. Blessings, Barbara!
ReplyDeleteI always enjoy Barbara's writing.
ReplyDeleteI've never had black eyed peas. :)
It's such a blessing to know that it's our God who is in control!
Hello Mari,
DeleteHow nice it is to see you visiting us here at The Christian Lounge. We hope to see you here again soon.
God bless.
I was happily referred here by Martha's post, and am so happy to see that you have created such a wonderful space here, Victor! I know that we used to comment on each other's posts in the past, and somehow lost touch. This is a marvelous opportunity, and I love the articles that have been shared thus far. My husband is southern, and he loves black-eyed peas. It is a wonderful dish to enjoy in the new year. Cornbread is also a staple! Many blessings to all of you!
ReplyDeleteHi Marilyn,
DeleteYes, I remember you. We used to visit each others' Blogs. Nice to see you visiting here. Please call again and often and invite friends and family too. We hope to get together a number of Christians to share articles here. Check out the ones already written (Reading List on right --->)
I still maintain my previous Blog should you wish to visit:
https://timeforreflections.blogspot.com/
God bless.
Well done, Barbara!!
ReplyDeleteHe does know best and I would think doesn't mind our eating the peas for how good they taste and trusting the future to Him.
ReplyDelete