As usual, at the beginning of January, our month was already full of meetings and commitments. The dry erase calendar which hangs on our fridge was a colorful display of text. However, the weather has not corporated.
We may make our plans, but God has the last word. ~Proverbs 16:1
Last week my van was unable to navigate our icy driveway twice which canceled my plans for a play date on Monday and then church on Sunday. Jason was going to be out of town last weekend, but inclement weather canceled his retreat too. So far this week, the snow and ice have prevented Bible study at my church from starting and forced me to say no to everything else outside of our house.
And while my friends are feeling stir crazy, it has been the sweetest week for me.
In a way, it is like God pushed pause on all of my plans and is teaching me contentment within my own four walls. I’ve always been one to keep busy, and that propensity has only increased with my age. So when everything around me is getting canceled, and my driveway is impossible to drive over, I usually blame the weather or mumble about my disdain for winter, but this week I’ve been taking deep breaths of the calm that comes from having a clear calendar. Instead of going places with my children, we’re doing more pretending, playing, coloring, cooking, resting, reading, snuggling, sledding, laughing, learning, engaging, and experimenting (we made slime which is totally gross, FYI). Even homeschool has been more enjoyable because, without our other commitments, it is much easier to complete our lessons promptly.
This morning, a friend posted this Bible verse on social media,
He directs the snow to fall on the earth and tells the rain to pour down. Then everyone stops working so they can watch his power. ~ Job 37:6-7
God’s Word took my breath away, as it confirms exactly what I’ve been experiencing. I don’t want to give in to discouragement or frustration when the weather changes all of my plans because all authority in heaven and on earth is His. I might feel that a snow day is a wasted day, but the truth is He doesn’t waste anything. And as I simplify and stop the glorification of busyness in my own life, I have a better chance of finding myself on Holy ground and having the ability to love my family with all of me rather than with my leftovers.
What might God be wanting to teach you through whatever weather you are experiencing?
darby dugger
Krishana says
Darby!! I love this!! I haven’t come across this verse from Job. That is perfect. As you described how everything began to shut down, I got really excited. I am with you, sister, in embracing the slow moments. I love how the delight of God overflowed from the situation. Thanks for bringing us into your story. Sounds like some extra special moments with your family. ~Krishana
Darby Dugger says
Thanks, Krishana! I hadn’t seen that verse either, until my friend posted it, and I loved it. Thanks for reading and commenting! Hope you are doing well.
Melissa Schlies says
This beautiful. I have to admit, I have been SO grumbly about winter this year–but what a good reminder to use it as an excuse to slow down and pay attention.
Darby Dugger says
Yes! I know what you mean. I tend to grumble over the winter weather than notice God. Thankful for His Word!
Heather Bock says
What a beautiful verse! I hadn’t noticed it before! Thank you for sharing it.
Darby Dugger says
Thanks, Heather!