In my grief I called out to the Lord and asked Him, “Why?! I can’t take on anymore… I’ve reached my limit. I’m not strong enough for this”, and He replied “When you are faithful with a little, more will be given. Focus on the blessing.”
RENEE EMERSON
What do we do when the plans we have for our lives, do not align with the Lord’s? In our human stubbornness, it’s easy to lament and say “nope, I’m NOT doing that” or “haven’t I sacrificed enough already Lord!?”, believing that through pure will and selfishness we can alter the good plans the Lord has for us.
Immediately after my fourth daughter Marigold Joy was born, I collected up all of my maternity things and threw them out the front door with a “see you NEVER” attitude. After being constantly pregnant or breastfeeding (or both!) for 6 years and having four children 5 years and under – I was determined that Marigold would be my last child. The pregnancy and baby season of my life was coming to an end. After all, the toll on my body had been great, I’d been sleep deprived for 7 years, I homeschool two of my children (3 next year) and felt I had reached the limit of what I could handle.
BUT God. God, and the relentless prayers of my faithful children and husband who desired another baby in the Emerson family.
Matt and I are now, joyfully expecting the arrival of another little Emerson in December!
I am reminded of this scripture as I embrace our little baby growing peacefully within me;
“We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps.” ~ Proverbs 16:9
So… I do not know how I can possibly manage being a homeschooling mum to five (as well as trying to grow a women’s ministry!). But, I do know that I am catching a glimpse of something beautiful.
When my tender mum heart begins to become overwhelmed, I only need to seek refuge in the Lord. I know He is in control and that I can do all of the things He sets before me, because He is my strength and comfort. Humanly, this is impossible. But when I focus my eyes above the situation, and lift them to Jesus’ face, I am able to find peace.
Aligning my heart to the Lord’s heart in this circumstance has taken an immeasurable amount of prayer, tears, comfort from my sisters-in -Christ and loving compassion from my dear husband.
In my grief I called out to the Lord and asked Him, “Why?! I can’t take on anymore… I’ve reached my limit. I’m not strong enough for this”, and He replied “When you are faithful with a little, more will be given. Focus on the blessing.”
Children are a gift from the Lord, they are a reward from Him. How could my heart feel sad knowing I was being blessed with a good gift from my Heavenly Father. The Lord has turned my mourning into rejoicing.
It will take longer to get where I was going, but I’ve decided that this little treasure is just a slight detour. And isn’t the scenic route always much more beautiful? 🌸
