Saturday, January 3, 2009

I KNOW WHO HOLDS TOMORROW

So do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Isaiah 41:10 NIV
~~~~~~

Donna and I do most every together, mall walking, shopping, cooking, house cleaning, church activities, etc, etc., except yard work and gardening, that’s my job. We very seldom go anywhere alone. We like it that way.

The week before this last Thanksgiving I came down with a cold and bronchitis and Donna went to the morning church service by herself. Some time later when she thought about it she remarked; “that was really a lonely feeling to walk into that sanctuary by myself.” As I heard her say that it struck me, “Wow, at our age that has happened to a lot of our friends. They have lost their mate and now they are doing most everything by themselves.” Donna and I really don’t know how lonely and painful that must be. But over the years we have observed the Lord faithfully sustaining friends as they have gone through painful chapters in life.

We have just entered the new year of 2009, and we don’t know what life will bring during these next twelve months. Part of us wants to know, but God in His wisdom does not reveal that to us. It’s best for us not to know, but faithfully trust Him whether He allows pain or joy. His grace will enable us to grow stronger as we walk close to Him through whatever this new year brings. Trusting our Lord is what will enable us to have victory over fear of the future.

In 1950 Ira Stanphill wrote the popular song “I Know Who Holds Tomorrow.” Here is the first stanza and chorus:
“I don't know about tomorrow;
I just live from day to day.
I don't borrow from its sunshine
For its skies may turn to grey.
I don't worry o'er the future,
For I know what Jesus said.
And today I'll walk beside Him,
For He knows what is ahead.

Many things about tomorrow
I don't seem to understand
But I know who holds tomorrow
And I know who holds my hand.”

Let’s Pray-
Thank you Father, that we need not fear the future because it’s in your hands.
We believe your promise that your plans for us are for good!
Help us to trust you without reservation.
Amen

If today’s promise and comments have been meaningful to you – don’t hesitate to leave a comment. (Single space gives best appearance.)

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3 comments:

Anonymous said...

Hi Iver and Donna,
You both are such a blessing to me. The insight into what others are experiencing and having compassion for their situation comes from a tender heart turned to God. I do enjoy seeing you, always together.
Mark Bowman

Anonymous said...

Patricia Hubbard said...
wonderful stories I enjoyed them!


You and and Donna have made a great impression in our life and we thank you.We are active in church and C L even teaches sunday school part time. We love you both and enjoy hearing from you. PS C L still has me make Donna's pumpkin Bars.

January 3, 2009 10:29 AM

Anonymous said...

I e-mailed this to my brother who lives in Sequim, Washington. His wife who is only 61 is in the last stages of cancer and not expected to be with us more than a week or two. They have been as close as any two people could be and to the Lord as well. No one can fill the space that is left upon losing a spouse. But believing in Jesus sees us through.

Bonnie Shear