Rain falls on everyone’s life. It is an aspect of life that we have no control over. The only control we have is our response.
The sun rises on both good and bad people; the rain falls on the ones who do right and the ones who do wrong. Matthew 5:45
Rain
This morning I was sitting on the patio, drinking coffee, awestruck by the garden.
It has never looked as beautiful and spectacular as it does this year.
The rose buds have grown to three times their normal size and the salvia spills purple and white flowers over the wall.
What had I done so differently in the garden this year? ……Nothing! Absolutely nothing!
I realized the only difference was the Rain!!!
I couldn’t help but think how God uses the rain in our lives!
Just as the rain seems to perfect the garden; so it seems to perfect us in Christ.
Is it comfortable? Is it easy? Absolutely Not!!!
Is it necessary for growth? Probably so!
But I guess I’ve learned that:
Rain is a part of life that’s inevitable. And, since it’s inevitable and can’t be avoided; I need to find the best way through it:
o I can choose to go it alone but unfortunately fear, worry, anxiety and despair seem to tag along as my constant companions. Peace and joy? Well, they become no more than photos in an album; snapshots of a happier time.
o Or, I can choose to learn how to walk with Christ in the rain. It seems to be the only path that teaches me to do what the garden does so naturally; drinks deeply of the water and grows. It must be the struggle of giving up control and trusting Christ that drives roots deeper into the soil to seek the water. No wonder they’re called growing pains!
Ps. What about Peace and Joy? I’m learning that they can be our constant companions even in the rain!
You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you.
Trust in the Lord forever, For the Lord…is the Rock eternal.
Is 26:3-4
Lord, may I be more like my garden and drink deeply of the water you offer and grow. Knowing you are in control; may I find peace and joy as my constant companions whether rain or shine. And may I find rest in your arms knowing there is a rainbow of hope as the Son will always shine through the rain! Thank you for always showing me mercy and grace. Lord, I pray this in your Son’s precious name. Amen
Sparrow’s Song Psalm 108: 1-6