Have you ever been faced with a task that at first became an positive opportunity and was soon revealed to be something completely different? Maybe this task was more of a challenge than anticipated and something you had to stretch a bit, maybe a bit more... more, dig deep, and put yourself on the line to complete. Despite all odds against you, people talking in one ear and matching that defeatist voice from within, you knew deep inside, i mean really Knew that you had to see it through even if it would cost you more in time, money and actual blood to finish what was started. Yeah, me too. Lol... After a month on this "challenge" i am about a day away from finishing the work at hand and i have pulled off the job for a little bit to make billable hours and catch a bit of sanity and repose.
When i started, i felt that "Finally" i was about to get a break and maybe not have to rely on the front yard garden for food - though that is not a bad thing (another lesson, another post perhaps), i had to step back, pause and regroup. But each day has shown it's own path even if i happened to make plans for what might come of the day. Man, and woman, make their plans and God directs their steps. At first i was pretty thrown off, and understandably upset, though i know better than to open my mouth and let that out. i learned to listen, observe, and most importantly to ask God what was going on, and what i should do. He definitely directed my steps - mostly up and down a ladder a thousand times (so grateful Jesus is a Carpenter) - and He took care of me and provided just what i needed, just in time. He also revealed to me the hearts of people, their motivation, and what was lying just underneath that thin facade, mostly rotten wood, hung nails, and no structure. i would call this experience an eye opener in one respect and a faith builder, in a more important respect. It also showed me that i was willing to give blood, sweat and tears for Jesus, and it certainly made me stronger Spiritually and physically.
It is a year of restoration for many of us - accept it and own it. That means we have had to tear out the old, the rotten wood, the unbraced structure, the crooked and untrue and to tear it down to the bare structure at times so that we might rebuild on the solid foundation and set the Cornerstone, straight and true, perfectly plumb, so whatever we erect from this point forward is perfect. It also means our eyes are open, our steps are directed, and we're not here as targets to be used any longer - accept that and own it.
i just wanted to share that with whoever is still out there reading this blog and let them know to keep true to God, ask Him to direct your steps and you will be rewarded above and beyond material things. He has your back, front, and sure footing even twenty feet up on a ladder in high winds.
Love and Blessings,
~ Anias (Chris, antbrother)
