So, the past few days I’ve been a little worried and stressed. Heather and I recently found out that we lost one of our major monthly supporters and are still in need of about $800 more a month to meet our support goal. My worry and stress kept me up most of Sunday night and into the early hours of Monday morning. Sadly, my worry and stress led me to being short my wonderful wife.
Realizing my fault and embarrassment of being short with Heather, I took some time alone to read my bible. After spending some time with God I picked up the book “Crazy Love” by Francis Chan, a book I have procrastinated on reading all summer.
Chapter 2 of the book met me right were I was at, as if by divine appointment. Chan writes:
“When I am consumed by my problems — stressed about my life, my family, and my job — I actually convey the belief that I think the circumstances are more important than God’s command to always rejoice. In other words, that I have the “right” to disobey God because of the magnitude of my responsibilities.
Worry implies that we don’t quite trust that God is big enough, powerful enough, or loving enough to take care of what’s happening in our lives.
Stress says that the things we are involved in are important enough to merit our impatiences, our lack of grace toward others, or our tight grip of control.
Basically, these two behaviors communicate that it’s okay to sin and not trust God because the stuff in my life is somehow exceptional. Both worry and stress reek of arrogance. They declare our tendency to forget that we’ve been forgiven, that our lives here are brief, that we are headed to a place where we won’t be lonely, afraid, or hurt ever again, and that in the context of God’s strength, our problems are small, indeed.” (Francis Chan “Crazy Love” p 39-40)
After reading this I realized how foolish I had acted. I needed God’s forgiveness for my failure to trust him and forgiveness for my lack of patience and grace with Heather.
Yesterday, God did provide for us. We received about $200 of the $800 that we are in need of. I believe fully that God will provide for us one way or another, whether we reach our exact goal or not.
Francis Chan goes on to say that, “If life were stable, I’d never need God’s help. Since it’s not, I reach out for Him regularly. I am thankful for the unknowns and that I don’t have control, because it makes me run to God.” (p 43).
As Heather and I prepare for our cross-country move on Saturday, there are still some unknowns but I am thankful for the reminder that I don’t have to have all the answers and I don’t have to be in control, because it allows us to run into his loving arms.
Running free,
Chad and Heather
Everything is going to be fine. You couldn’t have said it better when you wrote ” I believe fully that God will provide for us one way or another, whether we reach our exact goal or not.”
You two be safe on your cross-country move! Can’t wait to play again in Jan 09.
Peace
Thanks for your words, Chad. I was brought to tears and repentance reading them as I sit here with similar situationslots of stress and worrythat have robbed me of my joy.
Thanks for sharing and we KNOW THAT WE KNOW that God is faithful and he WILL provide.
Have really enjoyed seeing the pics and sharing your “journey/marriage” from too far away. So sorry we couldn’t be with you.
We continue to pray for you and Heather. Much love, Judy
With all the stuff going on in my life at the moment, I have learned to trust and depend on God for everything. Sometimes I get a little apprehensive at something new, but really not much at all because of the stronger faith I have built with Him. It’s really a cool blessing. Also, in life, you have to keep your sense of humor and laugh at whatever comes your way.
How encouraging to read your blog and see the comments of precious friends both near and far. My heart is very heavy for two dear friends in our small group that are battling cancer. Your words came at just the right time for me as we wait patiently for God to work. He promises to never leave us or forsake us. We can’t wait to see you. Love you so much!
Wow Chad! Your post couldn’t have been more perfect for me to read right now. I am defnitely getting stressed and worried about moving on Friday and I need to trust that God is in control. Thank you so much for sharing your heart! I love you and will be praying for you and my precious sister, Heather! : )
-Katie Sue
Chad – thanks for sharing – as my mum (who you stayed with) always says “If the Lord don’t come – he’ll send” – I have found it a simple yet truly profound statement of truth – we just have to have the heart, eyes and mind to see Him at work!
Love to you both – keep loving,laughing & communicating – oh and don’t forget the chocolate 😉
Much love Robin & Karen