During the last part of April, John and I spent some time with family members in the California sunshine. We brought back many good memories and photos. The above photo is one of many that I took during an evening walk through the Sacramento Capital Rose Garden. The roses were in full bloom. I wish I could have included the fragrance in my photo.
According to rose growers, in order to thrive roses need lots of sunshine, at least six hours a day. If I were a rose, I would not do very well during April in the north country! Thankfully, even in cloudy, rainy, and windy days, I can thrive. How? By replenishing my inner self, my spirit, in the overflowing warmth of Jesus’ love.
That’s what I was reminded of when I opened my Bible this morning and read these words of Jesus: “I have loved you even as the Father has loved me. Remain in my love.10 When you obey my commandments, you remain in my love, just as I obey my Father’s commandments and remain in his love. 11 I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow!” (John 15:9-11 NLT).
How is your spirit, today? Thriving or wilting? Full of joy or weighed down with the cares of the day? l hope that you will spend some time soaking up Jesus’ love. Then, no matter what your circumstances, you will thrive like a rose.
Because my spirit is alive
In the midst of pain, I can thrive.
Thriving is more than surviving;
It’s resting instead of striving.
Resting in the fact I am loved;
Greatly loved by the Father above,
Father of Lights, giver of life,
Who protects my soul day and night
From the Evil One’s devices.
I have learned God’s ways are wisest,
Though they include some suffering.
Despite the suffering, I can sing.
Because I see the joy ahead
And by the Spirit, I am led
Into places that I’d never go.
It’s in those places that I grow
Stronger, braver, wiser, kinder.
My lack serves as a reminder
That I have something more to learn;
So, with humility, not scorn
I’ll receive a kind correction.
And if it’s not gently given
Be willing, still, to learn a lesson–
Make a needed thought-revision,
With gratitude, not resentment.
That’s the pathway to contentment.
If I do these things, I’ll thrive
My spirit will be kept alive.
5/3/2018 Jane Ault
Yes indeed. Jesus makes my day!
So glad for that, Judith! I hope you are singing, today!
Thank you again for your encouraging and life-giving words. In the midst of changing tides, the truth of Hebrews 13:8 is our rock. Jesus Christ, the same, yesterday, today and forever!
Yes, Donna, how encouraging it is to know Jesus Christ, who remains faithful in all the winds of change.
Every line is succinct and true. Life is never static, always involves change, which requires adjustment.
Thank you for your comment, Susan. The constant and change and required adjustment that life requires would be very difficult without the help of the Holy Spirit. Praise be to God for his empowerment.