So last night, Casey and I had a rare hour of complaining about our financial woes. We kinda hit a limit on things breaking and falling apart. The romanticism of Casey biking to work while we save for a new car was wearing thin. We had had it with the broken cell phone, worn-out mattress, and slower than slow computer. Why suffer a with a broken sofa-bed couch another day? How do we call ourselves adults when don't have one comfortable chair in the house?
We began fantasizing about throwing our usual financial conservatism to the wind and instead charging up a storm. It was either gonna be that, or sell everything and head out on the mission field where going without is admirable.
And even though we didn't feel like it, we prayed, lifting all our first-world burdens to the Lord.
And low and behold if I didn't wake up with a much improved perspective! Friends are letting us borrow their super cute Mini-Cooper. I was able to sub at the food co-op I used to be a part of and brought home a ton of food for a very generous price. Got the mail only to find a bunch of checks that will enable my husband to go on a trip to Colorado to help with the fire damage. And most perspective rocking, was talking to a friend in deep financial and relational trouble. Had a serious count your blessings moment.
And so, I am thankful. Deeply, deeply grateful. Grateful for friends who care. Grateful for a Heavenly Father who is a magnificent provider. I have a husband who is deeply committed to his family and to his God. I have children who delight me. I truly have all I need.
And I am grateful that we are not rich. If we were rich, we wouldn't need to depend on God. And being dependent on God is where I function best.
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There Goes the Sun
2 weeks ago
Been there! Love those perspective changers God sends our way. :)
ReplyDeleteAmen!
DeleteI hear ya, sister. LOVE. THIS. POST. Love it.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Sara. I know you understand too well.
DeleteAh yes, you wrote this for me, right? Because we just had to buy another (our 3rd in two years) old, used dryer because the other one broke and hanging the laundry everyday for the past few months was wearing on us, what with a baby coming soon and the thought of dozens of poo-covered onesies. And the old volvo hasn't started in a few weeks, so we've been 1-car-ing it. And because when we spent too much on groceries, I actually felt guilty because I know that is over budget.
ReplyDeleteBut I'm here again today, with my husband and children and we have each other. And we will always have Him. We are provided for by our Master, and we are thankful.
Ahh, yes. yes, yes. Keeping leaning into Him, my friend, and know that you are not alone!
DeleteI am always amazed and awestruck by your faith and your honesty. I quit my job last year to stay home with my kids and sometimes I think we have it rough, losing 60% of our income. But God sent opportunities my way too make extra money and still be here with the kiddos. When I wanted to downsize, he provided a brand new house. But I am so thankful for all the many ways he has provided. God just used you to humble me again, as I have three working vehicles (four if you count Hayley's at school). I sure wish we were closer because you could use one of ours as well. Thank you so much for being so honest and in your honesty God convicted me. It is time I stopped and said THANK YOU instead of wishing for a new camera, or a new table. He provides what we need.
ReplyDeleteOh Rachel, I love your heart! I just think it pleases God so much when we choose to be thankful. And it benefits us so much too because when we thank Him, it lifts our eyes off our troubles and confirms all He has given. God bless you!
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