JOY 365: Day 27
Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior. – Habakkuk 3:17-18
Can I be transparent? I was a little bummed out today. It’s the 4th (or 5th – who knows!) day of being snowed in. I thought about spring, summer, and fall a lot today. The snow is pretty, but neither it nor the winter season produce the flowers and weather we tend to enjoy. I also didn’t feel very “productive”. I needed to get out of the house! So, I said, “Let’s go to Walmart,” and everyone quickly jumped up and eagerly hopped in the truck. We replenished some snacks and prepped for some meals, but the eggs, milk, and bread were empty! Thankfully, we had some left at home.
The snow-covered landscape and the empty shelves at the store made me a little sad at first. However, as we shopped, I thought of Habakkuk 3:17-18, which says, without trees that bud, vines with no grapes, failed crops, and empty fields and stables, “YET, I will rejoice in the Lord, and I will be joyful in God my Savior.” It is the Lord my God and Savior who gives life, provides, sustains, and enriches. The barren shelves from the snowstorm were temporary, and so was the winter season. Even in them, Jesus is my joy. Even if they linger, I will rejoice in Him. If they become the norm, may I find contentment and peace in God, who is good and enough. Perhaps these minor inconveniences are refining my devotion and building my perseverance and patience. Thank you, God, that abundance and absence increase my trust in you.
How is your contentment with God in absence and abundance?
stephen R Harrison 
Leave a comment