Happy Birthday, Aaron!

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones. (Proverbs 3:5-8 ESV).

It was early in the morning of October 20, 1983 that our youngest son was born. Since there were so many unusual challenges surrounding his birth, we were thrilled at the announcement from the doctors that all had gone well and he was perfectly healthy. In fact, as you can see from this picture taken in DC last summer, he is much healthier than I could hope of ever being! I suppose that should come as no surprise, since the Lord has always taken care of each day of our lives. Never-the-less, I am surprised. I am not surprised that Aaron is doing so well. He does more than his part in that regard. He runs five miles every other day, walks nearly everywhere he goes, eats healthy, and has great health habits. I am surprised because I always stand amazed at the great blessing of God in my children and grandchildren. I find it a sure example of the grace of God when I think of how easy it is to think it is just the things that I do that cause God to do what He does. The opposite is actually the truth. God does what he does because of who he is and his character of mercy and grace. I have marveled at the incredible blessing I have in my all my children. People often ask me how I managed it (whatever “it” might be at the moment of the query)? My answer is always pointed toward the mercy of God extended to me through Christ. Our reading today says that we should “acknowledge him, and he will make straight our paths” (v. 6). That sounds an awfully lot like something I must do rather than something I should be. However, it is the latter. The temptation to turn this verse into a vending machine principle of life must be avoided. I cannot put a bit of acknowledgement into the equation and receive this “straight path.” What I aim to do and be is an individual who knows that God is both responsible and intentional about bring blessing into my life. That is the gist of acknowledgement toward Him. So, as circumstances shift and change I can stay focused on the constant of God who both wills and works good in my life and the life of my children. Perhaps you have not had that kind of assurance in your life. Perhaps your children have proven to be more challenge that you ever imagined possible. Don’t rely on the world’s idea of faith and trust; rely instead on the unfailing principle from the Scripture. God desires nothing but good for you and your family. Thank Him for that unfailing mercy!