Continue to Expect

 

Article by Barbara Mims - Link HERE 

This year many people are saying it’s been unusually cold. That is especially true for my area which is widely known for its sub-tropical climate. We’re used to wearing cropped pants, short sleeves and flip flops most of the year. 

Due to the dire forecasts, local TV stations have instructed us to cover our more vulnerable outdoor plants with breathable fabrics (not plastic) and to leave them on for several days, not just for the overnight hours during the freeze warnings. 

We have done that. Since it’s also been very windy, it’s taken the two of us to get the bushes covered and to secure the fabric with clothes pins to the branches. 

After a week of this, the weather is finally warming up. Now it’s time to remove those coverings. That has proven to be a harsh revelation as to the effectiveness of trying to protect our landscaping.  At least 3 of our bushes are looking not only poorly, but possibly dead. 

Last year a family member advised us to not be too hasty declaring the demise of the bushes. She said we might be surprised in the coming weeks to see that after a careful pruning, there might be signs of renewed growth at the base of the plant. She was right!

I am reminded of Philippians 1:6 which says, “Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”

While our bushes may, or may not, come back to life, the people for whom I pray for a renewed interest in and a dedication to the Lord are definitely not a lost cause.  God finishes what He has started, and His word does not result in emptiness. 

Isaiah 55:11 tells us God’s Word does not return to Him void but accomplishes what He pleases, and it prospers.

I John 5:14-15 tells us if we ask Him anything according to His will, He hears us and we will have those requests. 

What a promise that is! We must pray and believe that God will open the hearts of those who have been frozen to the invitations of the Holy Spirit. 

My faith is bolstered as I think on these things!