Something New

I don't usually post on Thursdays, but I just had to tell you: I've lost over two thousand pounds and I feel GREAT! 

In 2016, Scott and I dumped a boatload of money into my old Explorer, believing we would hold onto her for a long while. Less than two months later, she was totaled. Desperately needing wheels to get back and forth to work, we began what I thought would be the unpleasant task of shopping and paying for a vehicle. God delivered. A ruby-red beauty I lovingly named Jolene. She was more than I could have asked for, and I told her story to anyone who would listen. She was evidence of God's provision for us. Exceedingly abundantly. Today, no longer needing to get to work every day, I gave her back. 

God has been teaching me to hold things loosely and live simply. A friend of mine lost her husband a while back. It was a shock. She handled it by digging into Scripture, drawing close to the Lord, and following His lead when He instructed her to make room for new things. She knows she'll see her husband again and she knows God has it all under control. Her example was an encouragement to me when my life was turned upside down. So, I have dug more deeply into God's Word, drawn more closely to Him, and I've been listening carefully when He's told me to make way for new things. Retiring and getting rid of my truck were a couple of those new things.

Sometimes God gives us things forever. Sometimes God gives us things only for a season. Jolene, I believe, was for a season. One that is now over. I can't say God asked to have her back; I simply wanted to give her back. The money can be used to bless someone else. Walking to the store is better for my health, and I'm out talking to people again. No more oil changes or inspections or wax on/ wax off. But, the biggest thing is, I am feeling unencumbered. Instead of holding things tightly, I am sitting with hands open wide, waiting for God to give me something else to do, waiting for God to give me something else to steward, waiting for God to put empty hands to work, waiting for God to do something new.