God Knows About Your Stress

by kingteamdad

RAMBLINGS from Evan’s dad –  Evan along with Lacy and Connor, has had the opportunity to travel from time to time on mission trips. The kids have see many things traveling. And they have seen those with many needs while traveling.

In Peru, Evan was as young as 7 years old when he first walked the streets with us. I think he was 10 when we were working with an orphanage in Colombia. He has seen those in serious need. He has also seen people that are very happy, even though they have very little. Even in the midst of poverty, we looked around at the mountains, at the sweet innocent faces smiling back at us, and the beauty of the country, and marveled at God and His handiwork.

This morning I sit here writing this once again from a little cabin up at Cloudland Station. There are no fancy flatscreen T’Vs to distract us. Our phones and tablets get very little signal.  We have to revert to that ancient tradition of interacting with each other.

Last night we sat around and talked. We snacked on food. We laughed and talked some more. A little after midnight we sang happy birthday to Lacy. A few minutes later I went off to bed listening to laughter in the next room. I marveled at God’s handiwork.

This morning there was no CNN or Fox News to watch. There were no sports updates on Sports Center. I went for an early morning walk so I could hang out with God in His creation. It was a wonderful walk. I took in the fresh air while I heard the crunch of gravel under my feet. The only updates I got was from the birds chirping good morning to me. I walked by several brooks and streams and listened to the water tumble over the rocks. I thanked Him for His creation. It was invigorating, yet relaxing. I thanked Him for my wonderful family. I marveled at God’s handiwork.

I wonder how things are back at the house? By now the swimming pool is running, along with the A/C units for the house. The alarm is on and monitoring for any fires or break in’s. The multiple cars need to be checked on. The kids have not learned that they have to be monitored for tires, service and possible repairs, so I still have to worry about that. The office alarm is on and the A/C is hopefully set for “weekend”. Did we water the plants in both locations? Is the rent paid? Is the power bill paid?

Do we really need all this stuff?

Lord, I am noticing things were less stressful when I was just hanging out with You!….

And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do,  for they think that they will be heard for their many words. Do not be like them,for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him.  (Matthew 6:7-8)