I was doing well the day after a tough day. Meeting with a friend, helping someone, and getting things done around the house was helping. But there were still remnants of weariness, and the heat wasn’t helping, especially since I decided to mow and take a walk late afternoon.
Taking a long, hot walk ended up more refreshing than I expected.
A couple miles into the walk, on one of my favorite country roads, I felt something odd. A cool breeze met the sweat on my skin and I shivered. I looked up to see if a storm was brewing but saw no clouds. I looked at the corn to determine the direction of the wind, but the leaves were only slightly fluttering. The wind I felt made no sense by what I could see, but I was going to enjoy every moment.
As I followed a turn in the road, the breeze intensified. I walked tall and breathed deeply. And I sighed.
I thanked God for respite, for His presence and provision. Life is difficult sometimes, but He never ceases to invest in my life. I can get so focused on myself and my circumstances that I miss out on the glimpses of His glory and peace. He comforts me, but I choose to stress instead. He nudges me, yet I try to maintain control. He shows up, and I take Him for granted or ignore Him.
Not today.
That unseen breeze reminded me. He doesn’t take all my problems away, but He gives me mercy and grace through them. He doesn’t show up as I expect, but I’m thankful for that, because He shows up His way. And His way is always better. I might get weary, but He doesn’t. Just like the breeze, I can’t see Him, but I feel His presence. I don’t fully understand Him, yet I trust Him. When I follow Him well, He surprises me with the refreshment I need, just at the right time and place.
Listen and watch for Him today. Set aside your expectations and simply trust Him to meet you where you are. Accept what He gives you. He is always willing to give you His presence, and that is the most refreshing gift of all.
The Spirit of God has made me, and the breath of the Almighty gives me life. (Job 33:4)