I always carry big purses. I’ve tried smaller ones but I end up stuffing them and eventually I can’t get them closed. Honestly, I like big purses with lots of compartments because then I can put everything in its place. And it’s always nice to be prepared for anything.
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The problem arises when things overflow from their compartments and more and more gets added. You’ve heard of dumpster diving? Well sometimes that image flashes across my mind when my purse gets out of control and I’m digging for my keys.
Not only does my purse lose its functional purpose when it’s overstuffed but the weight of it on my shoulder becomes more of a burden as things find their way in.
It’s like life for me lately. If I’m not careful I can feel as though I don’t know which way is up. My life becomes overloaded with all types of things – some extremely important and some just taking up space. I can find myself majoring on the minors and anguishing over missed opportunities. My days become burdened down and my joy is snuffed out. I struggle to be purposeful and waste time in worry and fret. That’s when I cry out to God in despair.
So you can imagine the encouragement I felt when I turned to Isaiah 26 the other morning.
Isaiah 26
3-4
You will keep in perfect peace
all who trust in you,
all whose thoughts are fixed on you!
Trust in the LORD always,
for the LORD GOD is the eternal Rock.
7-9
But for those who are righteous,
the way is not steep and rough.
You are a God who does what is right,
and you smooth out the path ahead of them.
LORD, we show our trust in you by obeying your laws;
our heart’s desire is to glorify your name.
All night long I search for you;
in the morning I earnestly seek for God.
12
LORD, you will grant us peace;
all we have accomplished is really from you.
Every once in a while, I go through my purse. I toss the garbage like old receipts and expired coupons. Then I evaluate what needs to go and I put things back where they belong.
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Sometimes my life needs the same attention.
I’m so thankful that God gives me perspective and “smoothes out the path ahead”. He offers truth and answers when I call on Him. His plan is practical and full of life and joy.
Have things become overwhelming? Are you burdened down under the load? Turn to God’s Word and let Him speak. Also, call out to Him in prayer. He promises in His Word that He will grant you peace when you do. And truly all we have accomplished or ever will comes from Him.
