We just returned home from spending one full day and two half days with our kids in the Valley. Those of you who read the blog a couple days ago know we went specifically to celebrate a granddaughter’s fourth birthday but it was also time to see all the rest of the family and visit with them.
It feels so good to have our necks hugged, give and receive kisses and hear all the “I love yous” being said. Better than cool water on a hot day! Gratitude feeds the soul.
For part of the drive down on Thursday and the return drive home yesterday we were in pouring rain. The windshield wipers were having a hard time keeping up; visibility was really limited. Dave does the driving and I so appreciate him for doing that.
At one point, I thanked him for being such a good driver. He thanked me for praying for the rain to stop. These aren’t empty words that we exchange; we truly appreciate what each other does.
I have no trouble asking the Father to clear the roads ahead of us and to keep us safe as we travel. He’s my Father and I know He wants to keep us safe as we go so I always ask Him to protect us on each trip. When we get there, we always thank Him for our safety.
“Ask, and you will receive. Search, and you will find. Knock, and the door will be opened for you. 8 Everyone who asks will receive. Everyone who searches will find. And the door will be opened for everyone who knocks. 9 Would any of you give your hungry child a stone, if the child asked for some bread? 10 Would you give your child a snake if the child asked for a fish? 11 As bad as you are, you still know how to give good gifts to your children. But your heavenly Father is even more ready to give good things to people who ask.” Matthew 7:7-11 CEV
As parents and grandparents, we do little things for our kids that we knew they would enjoy. We are God’s family and He wants to give us those things that are best for us. Who, better than He, knows what that is?
He has no desire to harm us or bring destruction into our lives. In fact, Jesus said that it is the thief, the devil, that comes to steal, kill and destroy; He came to bring us an abundant life, life filled to the full.
“But you saved us from our hateful enemies, and you put them to shame. 8 We boast about you, our God, and we are always grateful.” Psalm 44:7-8 CEV
There is no reason not to be grateful! The Father has blessed us with so much. It’s important that we remember to appreciate His love and be thankful for His provision.