Ahh, the warm sunshine felt good on my back. We needed rain, but in the meantime I might as well enjoy the sun. Besides, walking time was usually my best prayer time, and a great opportunity to practice my Connection Challenge exercise of “praising God.” I strode past my yard and up the street.
“Dear God, I praise you for being all-powerful—there’s nothing you can’t do. I praise you for being all-present—everywhere at once. I praise you for being all-knowing…”
A bird flew from the tree as I passed by.
“Yes, you know when every sparrow falls to the ground, and the number of hairs on every person’s head. You know our thoughts and our hearts…
“Wow, that must really tear you up to see all the evil thoughts and acts in the whole world at once.” My chest tightened at the thought. I couldn’t even stand watching the made-up CSI shows on TV.
“But then every kind thought and act must really shine and delight you.” My heart lightened a bit.
“Somehow good and bad all work together in your plan. You knew that giving us free will would result in problems. But it’s in times of trouble that many look to you.”
Laura Story’s song “Blessings” came to mind.
“Oh Lord, your plan is way too big for me to see or comprehend. I praise you for your wisdom. I think I know what will help the people and situations around me, and pray for those things. But only you know what is best.
“I praise you for your love for us, and your patience with us. I praise you for your plan, and your power to carry it out. I praise you for your faithfulness—we can trust you with our lives. I praise you that I can relax knowing you are in control.”
Below is tomorrow’s “Connection Challenge” exercise:
Premise: To receive God’s power and peace in my life, I need to be connected to Jesus (John 15:4-5).
Guidelines: For 21 days, my only goal will be to connect with Jesus throughout each day. I can also do any other activity if I can do it with Jesus.
Connection Aid: Day 17, Wednesday January 22: Read my Bible
John 15:4-5 says we must be connected to Jesus to bear fruit in our lives. To help this truth sink in, I will read John 15:1-8 and think about it throughout the day.
The Never Ending Gifts 
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