Our family has seen a host of events recently that bring new, PRACTICAL understanding to so many promises throughout scripture that God not only KNOWS WHAT HE’S DOING, but his plans for his children are so good! Over the past couple of weeks, the Lord has orchestrated circumstances that answer prayers with a resounding “YES–and more than you asked for!” as well as a “No–but I have something else for you.” I have been challenged, especially in the prayers answered with a “no” that ultimately, my concern is to glorify Him in all circumstances. And in the times he responds beyond our imagination, I am reminded of the man who proclaimed in the gospels, “I believe; help my unbelief!”

If we could only but see the lovingkindness with which the Lord allows and builds all things together for His glory and our good, oh how it would be such the delight to trust Him! That struggle ever to walk by faith and not by sight is, I’m sure, what Paul experienced when he wrote that he is ever-striving, “Trying to learn what is pleasing to the Lord”. The times of challenge as well as the times of deep joy must resound for us with a heart of gratitude and trust, knowing that ultimately, the Lord knows what He is doing, and oh is He good!