Paradise

I've been honeymooning for almost a week now and I have to admit that the rumors about Hawaii are true--it is paradise. Each morning Bryan and I have spent 2 hours on our balcony gazing at the waves of the Pacific, enjoying the pleasant breeze, reading God's Word and discussing it. I have needed this time with the Lord desperately. The last few weeks have been so busy-- planning a wedding in such a short period of time was insane! I have had so little time to reflect, write and explore. I am so grateful for this time now. God has taught me so many things about myself this week. I feel Him shaping me and preparing me for my new life. I've had a lot of time to ponder my past and to also get excited about my future. I am filled with hope, peace and joy.

One of the books I am reading on my trip is called, The Red Sea Rules by Robert J. Morgan. It is a small book packed with Biblical truths that are not necessarily new to me, but have been extremely helpful. Today's chapter is on walking Day by Day. Being the planner that I am, it is incredibly challenging for me to take each day as it comes. I am constantly looking ahead-- strategizing and over thinking. Sometimes it can be a blessing to be wired this way, other times it can be anxiety provoking. I love C.H. Mackintosh's quote because it speaks to me so clearly,

"...the Red Sea did not divide throughout all at once, but opened progressively as Israel moved forward, so that they needed to trust God for each fresh step. God never gives guidance for two steps at a time. I must take one step, and then I get light for the next. This keeps the heart in abiding dependence upon God."

This imagery was so perfect for me. I need to be reminded that my planning does not shift my future, it just keeps me feeling like I have some control over my life. Ultimately, God will show me what to do next and how to do it. I want that more than anything-- to be completely dependent on God and respectful of His plan for my life. This week God has taught me that I can do this. I can listen and abide in Him, and feel complete peace while doing so.