Sometimes it still seems surreal that we actually live in a different country. It may be the recent date of the 4th anniversary of our move, or maybe it's the things I keep stumbling upon in different readings, but I'm feeling rather reflective about our physical position here in New Zealand. Moving here was definitely a huge undertaking! We uprooted 3 teenagers who were well established in their schools, extracurricular activities & friendships. We sacrificed the close proximity of long time friends and the ready availability of family. We gave up the security of retirement plans and home ownership. And we headed to the unknown! But along the way were soooo many confirmations of what God was calling us to do, that we had no doubt that we were following His plan for our lives. (those stories will be a blog for another day). However, I am human, and doubt does still creep in occasionally and so I am very thankful when God gives me some reminders of the certainty that we are exactly where He intended us to be at this phase in our lives.
Here are a few of those reminders:
- I have adopted a quote that was on my friend's facebook wall awhile back: "The place where you are right now, God circled on the map just for you." Cool!
- Isaiah 41:9&10 "I took you from the ends of the earth; from its farthest corners I called you. (that would be Canada to New Zealand - can't get much farther!) I said, ‘You are my servant’; I have chosen you and have not rejected you. So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." What a wonderful promise to hold to!
- Another scripture that we read today in church: Acts 17:26b says 'and He determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live.' God knows where we need to live!
- I will summarize the lesson from this morning's devotional booklet, (which I only read occasionally and it usually is something that hits the spot on that day). It is entitled, 'Where You are Matters!' God's plan for your life always involves your gifts, His timing and being in the right place. But three things can keep that from happening: fear of failing, unwillingness to leave your comfort zone, and being swayed by the opinions of others....... The point was that God's plan for your life is always connected to 'a place' and there were a few examples from the Bible for this point. Where you are matters!
Bloom where you're planted, my dear friends and readers!
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