One of my favorite devotionals is My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chambers (reprint 1995). In 2014 I was reading it for the third time.  I often would start my quiet time with O.C.’s daily devotional for the day.  This day’s title was “The Brave Friendship of God” (August 4^th).

From the journal .  .  .  . August 2014

Lord, am I of use to You?  O.C. says if I think I am (of use to You), You can’t use me.*  But as parents, we have to believe we are of use, because You have given us children to raise.  Hmmm.  Maybe the kids have problems because we did too much in our own strength.  Lord, how I need You!  I still want so much for them.  Please use me.  Help me to wait on Your timing for my actions or responses.  I just posted on FB about how You want us to maintain our relationship with You.  Lord, draw Your people.  I trust that it was You prompting me.

*Not a direct quote

And I Believe God Said:

Always be open to Me.  I abide in you, but you have to keep Me as your focus, always on your radar.  All this life around you is connected to me.  You get overwhelmed by life with fears and responsibilities.  Come to me.  I am always here.  Rest in me.  Trust me.  You are safe.  You have a future here on earth* and a wonderful reward in heaven.  Take heart.  I’ll give you words to speak.*  Be listening.  Stop talking and listen.  I will give you words.

Jeremiah 29:11. ¹¹ For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.
Matthew 10:19. When you are arrested, don’t worry about how to respond or what to say. God will give you the right words at the right time.

Okay, Lord.  Now I have to plan for school.

Planning is a process.  Seek Me when you plan.  Listen. When you get information and training, listen. I will show you where and when to apply it.  You make it harder than it needs to be.  Be brave as you ‘neglect’ some things.  Don’t put your confidence in your plans, but in Me.

Wow, Lord.  Thank you!