Reflection

“Remember his marvellous works that he hath done, his wonders, and the judgments of his mouth;” – 1 Chronicles 16:12

Today begins my 7^th week on my health journey. I must confess it was a bit disappointing when I did my weekly measuring this morning. There was no change to record! No weight or inches lost! I knew I hadn’t done anything off program, so for a time, disappointment threatened to be a dark cloud over my head today. But then, I took a moment to reflect on where my journey has taken me over the past 42 days. Physically, I am down 19 pounds. I haven’t gained anything back, and I’ve been able to follow my program without much difficulty. Spiritually, I have been reading much more of God’s Word, and I have been learning to listen to Him as He speaks to me through it. I have experienced growth in my prayer life, and I have found ways to serve Him while “sheltered-in-place.” Not bad for 6 weeks!

Reflection is important. Stopping to take time to look back over where one has “traveled” is a major component of moving forward. One of the things I have learned through my personal reflection is the importance of seeing the “big picture.” In my Christian life, it is important to look back and see all the great things God has done in my life. When I recall some of the life events God has brought me through, I am filled with gratitude. For example, when I reflect on the turmoil in my childhood, this hindsight (which is always 20/20) clearly reveals His work in laying a foundation of faith in my young life that would not come to fruition until years later. When I think back on how He cared for me years before I made a decision to accept Christ as my Saviour, it is truly humbling. It reminds me of Romans 5:8, “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” He loved me and cared for me greatly before I ever chose Him to be Lord of my life. That’s so amazing to me!

There have been times in my life where God did seem very far away. I often lost sight of Him, and I felt so alone, but looking back, I know He was with me every step of the way. In reflection, I can see God so clearly in my life that I realize I was never abandoned by Him, and I know now that I never will be. That’s what reflection does. It reveals how the individual threads of life join together to make one beautiful tapestry woven by the hand of God.

So, when I reflect on these last 42 days, I definitely can see God working in me, and I praise Him for that! He has blessed me beyond measure, and I know He continues to walk with me on this incredible journey I have begun. Without a doubt, I am in a much better place both physically and spiritually than I was 6 weeks ago! So, with that in mind, I head off into week #7 with my hand in His, continuing to do what I know is best for my body and my soul!

Precious Lord, take my hand
Lead me on, let me stand
I’m tired, I’m weak, I’m lone
Through the storm, through the night
Lead me on to the light
Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home

When my way grows drear,
Precious Lord linger near
When my light is almost gone
Hear my cry, hear my call
Hold my hand lest I fall
Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home

(from “Precious Lord, Take My Hand” by Thomas A. Dorsey)

“Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms.” – Psalm 95:2

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There is no sweeter way to walk through life than with Jesus!