Day Two
Invaluable
Proverbs 31:10...A capable, intelligent and virtuous woman - who is he who can find her? She is far more precious than jewels and her value is far above rubies or pearls...
Invaluable: Of estimable value, priceless, invaluable help. When I saw this characteristic, I immediately thought of Connie Dove. She is my Aunt, a woman who has made an impact on my life and one who has been an invaluable help. I always remember her as being a part of our lives, whether we lived near each other or on opposite sides of the country. That is how family is, you know? But as I contemplated this word, invaluable, there were 2 very strong memories that rose up instantly, traumatic and difficult times, and Aunt Connie was right at our side. She was even with us when my daughter Rachael had her first baby.
God deposited qualities in Aunt Connie that manifest as strength and encouragement, without her even saying anything. These gifts created an atmosphere of support in an otherwise difficult situation, especially when our Mother underwent brain surgery. And while we understand that we need to lean on the Lord above all things, He also gives us each other. The bible tells us to "bear one another's burdens" and to "pray for one another".
The book of 1 John speaks of love for the Father and love for one another. How great a love is it when we allow the gifts that God has given us to be invaluable to another? How great a sacrifice is it when we set aside our own needs for another? Aunt Connie has 5 children of her own, and during those times when she stood beside us in the difficulties, her life did not stop. She had her own family, her own set of problems and challenges, yet she did not complain or act put upon. She just stood there beside us, helping us to stand. What a testimony of love!
2 Timothy 3:1 says...But understand this that in the last days will come (set in) perilous times of great stress and trouble [hard to deal with and hard to bear]. In this day and hour, we definitely need to see this type of love flowing freely. In days where there are suicide bombers, planes smashing into buildings, large corporations failing and countries at war, people desperately need to see this kind of love in action.
Matthew 10:8b...freely ye have received, freely give...(King James Version).
A hearts' cry: Father, in this day, this society, in these last days, help me to focus beyond myself and realize that others need to see Your gifts, as love in action...
|
|