Daily Wisdom for Women - January 9, 2023

 January 9, 2023 - As Promised - "The Lord kept his word and did for Sarah exactly what he had promised.  She became pregnant, and she gave birth to a son for Abraham in his old age.   This happened at just the time God had said it would."  Genesis 21: 1-2

As I read the devotion, the words "The Lord kept his word and did...exactly what he had promised." were emphasized.  I had been thinking on those words as I typed them in the verse above.  The writer of the devotion reminded me that these words will be important to remember when I am distraught and anxious (which is me most of the time) or even when I am joyful and secure (which has been happening more often than it did).  Right now I am struggling with testing positive for COVID because I can't go anywhere or see anyone.  I was grumbling this morning about that, and Gary reminded me that the situation could be SO much worse.  I could be VERY sick, in the hospital, on a ventilator, close to death.  Instead I had a head cold, and not even a BAD head cold like I usually get.  I had been taking OTC and was feeling much better when I tested.  The cold was more in my nose and my head and had not gone into my chest, for which I had been very thankful.  What has been the result of testing positive?  Staying at home.  I love staying at home, just not being restricted to home. I know.  I am spoiled.  We had to miss Landon's birthday.  You know what?  We weren't there when he was born either.  It's not important that we BE there with him ON the day.  What is important is that we are there for him ALL the time, whenever he needs us.  He can get his gifts when I feel better and I can actually get a hug from him then.  There are blessings all around and I just need to open my eyes and be thankful for them!

That middle paragraph in the devotion is important too.  God has given us so many promises that I need to remember each time I feel myself slipping into the 'poor me' mode.  His never-ending guidance.  His faithfulness.  His love.  His grace.  All of the blessings we continue to receive each and every day.  His wisdom through His word.  His peace and joy and power and more.

God does always keep his word.  He keeps his promises.  He is always here with us.  Nothing happens except for His reason.  As Rhonda told me, this time of rest is what I need after rushing through the busyness of November and December and the holidays, entertaining, gifts, travel, and more.  I need this time period of rest, so I need to take advantage of it and be thankful that I am not in the hospital or on a ventilator and that by next week, I'll be wishing I had more time at home!

Lord of love, lead me to the promise You would have me claim as I read Your Word today.  Amen.