“What on earth do fig trees, olive oil, sheep, and cattle have to do with me in modern American society?” I asked myself.
Fig tree not blossoming? Long-held expectations have been dashed. No fruit on the vines? Efforts and prayers don’t lead to the hoped-for results. No olive oil or food? At times, I become keenly aware of what’s missing in my life. Being cut off from the fold? Sometimes I feel isolated from others and deem myself unprotected. No herd? Something I thought I held safely suddenly disappears.
Rather than lasering on disappointments, I can opt for joy and rely on God. He will be my strength—plus a bonus promise for nimble and sure feet. A wonderful blessing as I walk on with Him step by step.
But it all hinges on me focusing on the three-letter word “yet.” Yet I will rejoice in the Lord.
Choose to rejoice in God today and turn away from self-pity. He will strengthen and guide you as you trust Him.
(photo courtesy of pixabay.com.)
(For more devotions, visit Christian Devotions.)
A Wisconsin native, Lauri Lemke Thompson appreciates living with her husband in the lovely Ozark mountains in Branson, Missouri. She is active in Christian Women’s Connection (Stonecroft) and the Ozarks Chapter of the American Christian Writers. Her two books, Hitting Pause and Pressing Forward, are collections of her columns, articles, and devotions. Her bimonthly column appears in the Branson Globe newspaper.