There are days when my homesick heart tends to focus in self-pity on the creature comforts I once took for granted, and that by geography are now denied me. But my loving Father tenderly takes my heart in His hands and turns it around to view instead the joys that are mine because I am where I am. Joys that I would never have known had I remained in the “Land of Creature Comforts”.
I still thrill at the early morning sight of the palm outside my window gently waving its fronds in praise of it's Creator.
Psalm 24:1 – The earth is the LORD'S, and the fullness thereof, the world and they that dwell therein.
The corners of my mouth turn upward in joy each time I think about how we live in a place where hammocks are standard living room furniture! A hammock affords immeasurable pleasure to children and adults alike. My baby's giggle and my children's laughter as they enjoy it is priceless!
Psalm 113:9 – He maketh the barren woman to keep house, and to be a joyful mother of children. Praise ye the LORD!
I sigh contentedly each time the salty ocean breeze wafts over the ridge and into the house. I wonder when I became so fond of that smell? I still can't believe that God has brought us to live and serve Him in a place where most of America dreams of vacationing.
Isaiah 43:18-19 Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.
My eyes mist in gratitude as I witness the spiritual birth of another soul, or hear the testimony of a babe in Christ praising God for answered prayer.
Romans 10:14-15 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!
What are creature comforts compared to the joys God gives to those who follow where He leads? Lord, help me forget the “leeks of Egypt” (see Numbers 11) and savor the sweetness of the “manna” you are providing for me now. May I choose joy in your presence, follow where you lead, feast only at your table and never look back.
Praising You – by Katie H.
Praising You, in Paradise
for the example of the Palm.
He sways in praise everyday,
his fronds outstretched in song.
Praising You in Paradise
for the songs of feathered friends.
Their notes of joy inspiring.
Sweet music. Heaven sent.
Praising You in Paradise
for warm sun and salty breeze,
for exotic fruits and hammock swings;
Thank you God for joy in these.
Jen says
Praising HIM for you and these sweet words— and yes, palm fronds.