“Remember how the Lord your God led you all the way in the wilderness these forty years, to humble and test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep His commands.” (Deuteronomy 8:2)
My husband and I purchased a home in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley of Virginia and for three years have been looking forward to his retirement so we could live there full time. As the big day of April 1 gets closer, I have been extremely busy getting things packed, having yard sales, and keeping our home in order for potential buyers to walk through. Being constantly on my feet with little time for rest has caused the pain from a nerve disorder in my legs and feet to flare and the constant and extreme pain seems to make me feel exhausted. Being in pain and feeling tired is a challenge when there is so much to do.
Throughout the day, I find myself thinking how much more fun these final preparations for moving could be if I were not in pain. But then would I lose sight of what is really important in life? Does coping with this challenge help me keeps life in perspective and help me stay focused on my need for God and His guidance in every area of my life?
In life, it sometimes seems as if we are wandering in circles. We feel lost. We want to ask God, “Are we there yet? How much longer?” At such times, it helps to remember that the journey, not just the destination, is important to God. He uses it to humble us, test us, and show us what is in our hearts.
All God’s testings have a purpose! Someday you will see the light;
All He asks is that you trust Him, Walk by faith and not by sight.
It’s the journey, not just the destination, that’s important.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, Help us to remember that everything that happens in our lives (including pain) can have purpose if we use it to draw closer to You. Give us strength and help our faith in You to grow stronger each day. Amen.
About the Author:
Patricia Armstrong is a retired teacher. She lives with her loving husband, Richard, in Virginia Beach and will soon live in the Shenandoah Valley of Va. Patricia enjoys church activities, volunteer work, gardening, camping and reading.
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Patricia,
Thanks for the reminder that the journey is still so important and something that God is leading us on. We may not choose to do it with so much pain – but God still has a purpose in it, even if we never really understand that.
Praying that you will have the strength and endurance you need to get through this next few busy weeks.
God bless,
Fiona