Thursday, June 16, 2011

Surprised By God

Life always has surprises. This week has been no exception. Little Madelyn had a friend, a little boy, at the orphanage in China. There are several pictures of them together, as well as reports describing their relationship as close, best friends, like a brother and sister.  Isn't it amazing to think of two babies attaching themselves to one another?  Their bond was clearly strong. We know Madelyn grieved after she left the orphanage and certainly leaving her best friend/brother was part of it.

A family in Texas is now in the process of adopting Madelyn's friend, who has been named Travis. They were doing a search and found the blog about Madelyn with pictures of her and their new son.  So. They emailed.  And, now, these little best friends will have a way to connect.  There's no doubt, God planned for them to have a relationship.  It's a catch your breath, awe moment.  Once again, we are surprised by God.

Both Madelyn and Travis have had their share of hardship in their young lives; however, adversity is not the end of their story but something God has used to bring about His plan for the best life.
Isn't it just like God to surprise us, revealing His heart, reminding us that every detail is important to Him, nothing, not one thing, about who we are and what we need is forgotten?
Consider.
But the plans of the LORD stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations (Psalm 33:11, NIV).

Think on it.  Reality is based on the plans of God.  We often are busy with our own plans, unaware of God being purposefully at work.  To see what more is going on, we need to intentionally take our focus off of our stuff and focus on Him.  And.  When we look, we will see there are surprising moments woven into each day, reminding us God has a plan based on relentless love and will purposefully use each detail, bringing all things together for good, making all things new, revealing life is more than what we've planned.

The thing is . . .  when we look for God, when we've turned away from the pressures and problems, when we've surrendered what we want, when we've rested in the reality of His presence . . .  we can't help but be surprised when we see what He has done.  It's a gift to be surprised by God. Take time to look for God.  Celebrate the moments you are surprised by God. 

Learning to Kickstart the day surprised by God,
Kerrie

(written by Kerrie Carlisle Palmer © 2011 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED)