Last Monday was my final day of vacation. So I did what anyone does on their last day of vacation. I checked the weather, saw that there was no rain in the forecast, and drove my tractor and hay rake to a field to rake the hay into windrows.
After spending hours in the hot sun making perfect windrows, I was very proud of myself. Tuesday evening, after work, I intended to bale the hay.
As I drove the tractor home, content that I had a very productive day and was master of my own universe, I happened to look to the west. The sky was filled with a massive thunderhead that had come out of nowhere. Just to make sure, I checked the weather app on my phone. It still showed no rain for the next seven days.
As the rain came pouring down, I realized those thick windrows I was so proud of were getting soaked and I wouldn’t be baling hay Tuesday night. My careful planning had not worked out the way I intended. That’s life.
The older I get, the more I am aware of how very little I actually control. Many of my foolproof plans never come to fruition because the unexpected happens.
Weather apps get it wrong, the GPS doesn’t always know the best route, the stock market goes up and then drops through the floor, I have a flat tire when I am in a hurry, I get sick at the most inconvenient time, my computer shows me the blue screen of death, Shannon makes cauliflower crust pizza, the unexpected goes on and on and on…..
But in this world filled with the unpredictable, the unforeseen, and the unreliable, there is one we can always count on. God will always be here for us. This is what David meant by saying, “And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O Lord, have not forsake those you seek you.” (Psalm 9:10)
Today, as you face something you did not expect or plan for, don’t get rattled. Remember that the Lord of the Universe is with you, loves you, and wants to walk with you through this life into eternity. That’s what really matters.
Prayer: Dear Gracious Heavenly God, help me to always put my trust in you and see the big picture. Guide my steps, thoughts, and actions. I pray my life pleases you. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Friday evening I cut more hay so I expect it will start raining at any moment.
I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins
Daily Devotionals by Dr. Tom Robbins 