A Different Route

The last few days have overflowed with God's goodness!  As I have talked about before, it seems as though God has kept me in Canada this year, rather than sending me to Cameroon with Mercy Ships. Initially, it was difficult for me to surrender to what God wants, but as I have learned to trust Him, He has given me joy, peace, and He has showered His mercy on me.

So far this fall, God has brought about more blessings than I can easily explain here: Bible study opportunities, a new roommate, a bit of Africa in my town, the chance to learn a new instrument, and time for games just like I had on the Africa Mercy.

The Lord gives, and the Lord takes away, but blessed be the name of the Lord!  He didn't have to provide all these things that He did, but has shown His kindness over and over and over by doing so.  He has answered prayers that I prayed many months ago.  Sometimes we do not receive answers to our prayer requests, but it does not mean that God is not listening.  He is still very much aware, but sometimes chooses not to give what we have requested.  There are many different reasons why He does so, but one common promise for us all is that He does not withhold any good thing from those who love Him.

O Lord God of hosts, hear my prayer; Give ear, O God of Jacob! Selah.
Behold our shield, O God, and look upon the face of Your anointed.
For a day in Your courts is better than a thousand outside. I would rather stand at the threshold of the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness.
For the Lord God is a sun and shield; The Lord gives grace and glory;
No good thing does He withhold from those who walk uprightly.
O Lord of hosts, how blessed is the man who trusts in You!
~Psalm 84:8-12