Unscrambling words has always intrigued me; so when I received a Kindle reading device for my birthday (thanks to my Mom and my sisters), I downloaded a game called Every Word in addition to the book Little Bee.
The object of Every Word is to form as many words as possible from the letters assembled on the screen. You get to the next level by guessing the word that uses all of the letters.
A few nights ago, the last word I decoded was shelter. As I nestled into bed, all warm and cozy, that word remained emblazoned in my mind – demanding my attention.
It didn’t go away for quite some time.
My thoughts wandered to those who are without the security of a roof over their heads. What must it feel like to be homeless, especially in the dead of winter?
The bed that I take for granted would be a luxury for many.
In my younger days, the word shelter elicited excitement and anticipation. Fun arts and crafts under the picnic shelter at the city park occupied many a summer day. Family gatherings and church barbecues were sure to stay dry in the event of rain if a shelter was reserved in advance.
As parents, we make great efforts to protect our toddlers from inherent danger. Our gray hairs begin to appear during the teenage years when our well-meaning advice sometimes falls on deaf ears. Our earnest desire is to prevent our children from making some of the same mistakes we did.
We soon realize that we can’t shelter our children from the world. Just as we did, they will make their own choices…and experience the consequences thereof.
Interestingly, God “parents” us in a similar way. He alone is our Refuge and source of strength as we live our lives. His advice and direction are always sound, and in our best interests.
However…though God is our Steadfast Protector, He doesn’t always shelter us from problems or misfortunes.
Life isn’t always a picnic, as we well know.
Our challenge is to stay close to Him through the stormy times, having confidence that He will help us through. We need to hang onto His Every Word.
God gives us shelter – and the lack of it – for our ultimate good.
You’ve always given me breathing room,
a place to get away from it all,
A lifetime pass to your safe-house,
an open invitation as your guest.
You’ve always taken me seriously, God,
made me welcome among those who know and love you.
~Psalm 61:3-5 (The Message)
beWARM 
I never cease to be amazed at the timeliness of our precious Savior and the ways He speaks through others. After learning of some concerning issues our children are having with two of our 17 year old grandsons….my email displays “Wordplay”. Thank you, Toni. Your words were a reminder of many things, but most of all of His steadfast love and provision. It was a blessing to be able to share your message (His message) with my children. Needed encouragement!
So happy to have helped! I give all the credit to the Holy Spirit….
Toni~
Every entry you’ve written reveals more of the beautiful tapestry that is you – with all your wonderful spiritual gifts, experiences, and wisdom. Above all, I see your heart for His heart. Precious.
My will, my way.
His will, my way.
His will, His way.
Blessed to be journeying alongside you as we endeavor to live His will, His way – giving Him glory and filled with His joy in doing so.
Geri