The goodness of God
Facts and findings
Well, Peaceful Readers, I did something new in January and early February. I wrote pages of notes as I read through my entire journal from last year, and then I sorted the notes into categories and themes. What a revealing exercise. Here’s the thing. Writing down hundreds of facts wasn’t enough. I needed to look for the bigger picture. What did the facts mean? What did they reveal? What was God doing?
What did the sequence or unfolding of events demonstrate
about God’s character that he’s already spoken in his word?
Puzzle pieces
Acknowledging the facts about my life, my situation or my year is like looking in a box filled with puzzle pieces. Some of the puzzle pieces are right-side up, while others are upside down. Am I seeing a particular experience rightly? Is the puzzle piece upside down? Am I missing the “up” side of this event or encounter? Do I need to think about this from someone else’s point of view? Journaling can help exponentially in this area. Am I recording the events of my life in a timely manner? If not, I won’t remember many of them accurately—the timing, the order, the details, the before and after, the blessings sprinkled throughout that time.
Progress and joy
In life, we don’t have the wonderful picture on the outside of the box, telling us what these little puzzle pieces will actually look like when they’re fully assembled—when we put them all together. At times, we may feel like we’re just going through the motions; perhaps feeling discouraged, totally overwhelmed or blasé; spinning our wheels and not really getting anywhere. That reminds me of sections of a puzzle that are largely one color. Those parts are tricky. But then I start seeing the oh-so-subtle color variations. Each time I put two pieces together, I feel a sense of accomplishment. It feels really good. And the beauty of puzzle working is that there’s no deadline. No pressure. No rush. If I sit down for an hour and only put a few pieces together, that’s okay. Progress was made.
Can we look at our “same-ol‘, same-ol‘ days” that way? I like to remember this verse—one that some of us learned and sang as children.
This is the day that the LORD has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it.
Psalm 118:24, New Heart English Bible
We have a sweet children’s book based on that verse.
The themes
Why did I spend five weeks digging through last year’s journal? Because the Holy Spirit inspired me to prepare for a group of posts called A Year in the Life.
I found three recurring themes: Water, spiritual warfare and renewal. Those themes may seem unrelated, but I think we’ll discover the interweaving of those themes in the months ahead.
Let’s start putting some puzzle pieces together.
Today’s story is all about renewal. And what a beautiful story it is.
July—God’s provision
Time for a change
When I wrote The Holy Spirit, part 4, I was totally digging my Volt. “Best car ever.” But as time passed, Brandon wanted to replace it. The charging port broke and a replacement part wasn’t available. Disappointing, but not the end of the world. I ran it on gas. Brandon wanted to sell the car before it became a brick and suddenly stopped moving—something he’d read about online. (And a rebuilt battery would cost $5K. Ouch.)
The delay and the stop
I delayed making a change because my Volt was such a dependable, quiet, comfortable ride. Until it wasn’t.
Tuesday, July 11 (part 1)
Journal entry
…The Volt lost power on the bridge near our house—down to 20 mph, then 11 mph, then 4. I couldn’t find the hazard button. I was seriously concerned. I think only one person honked at me. Thankfully, I made it into the Shell parking lot. Brandon came from work, changed some fuses, bought me Peanut M&Ms; we switched vehicles and met at home for a short discussion….
I’m ready to replace the Volt. Brandon emailed and showed me some options.
Talk about a 180. I went from “It’s still working” to “I will not drive that car.”
The replacement
What happened two days later?
Thursday, July 13
Journal entry
Brandon looked at a 2006 Tahoe and took it for a test drive. It has about 82K miles and drove well. After work, we went to look at it together. When I sat in it, I loved it! I knew at work today that my next vehicle would be named Ralph.
We bought Ralph and enjoyed a celebratory dinner at a café across the street. I journaled, “I am so excited and thankful.” And two days later—on The Spider’s birthday—we sold the Volt. Praise the Lord. I was hoping for $2K, Brandon was hoping for $4K, and God met us right in the middle at $3K even. I was oh-so-grateful.
The goodness of God
Why did this car switch-out happen so quickly and smoothly in July? Because God is good. He protected me on that bridge and gave me a safe place to coast to a stop. In addition to being our protector, God is our provider. We needed Ralph. A new family member was coming—one that wasn’t remotely on my radar. And our new family member needed strong, sturdy, roomy Ralph, not my compact, cute-as-pie Volt.
The details
Like I wrote in this post, God is in the details. How so? Ralph’s color made an impression. “When Logan saw Ralph, he was super-pumped. It reminds him of Coach Johnson’s vehicle and Tony Soprano’s (TV show). Logan’s smile was great.”
The blessings
God is also The Giver. On that stressful day when the Volt slowed down to a crawl, cars stacked up behind me, and I was an hour late for work, God showered me with blessings—in addition to the Peanut M&Ms from Brandon. I’ll share The Top 3. (1) A lady from St. Matt’s brought me a Braum’s crispy chicken club sandwich (my favorite) and a chocolate chip cookie dough shake for lunch. “DEEE-licious.” (2) I enjoyed some sweet time with Kathleen, my new mom. And (3)—Charlene sent me a wonderful, encouraging text about my Sound of Freedom post.
Tuesday, July 11 (part 2)
Journal entry
I sure love my Soul Sister! Thank you, Lord, for my wonderful, immense blessings. Thank you for protecting me today. I am in your hands. I love you. Amen.
…Today was filled with highs and lows and the hand of God. “Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised….” Psalm 145:3a [KJV]
Who God is
God tells us who he is in his word. For a Psalm about God’s protection, provision and goodness, see Psalm 34.
Oh taste and see that the LORD is good.
Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him.
Psalm 34:8, New Heart English Bible
August—God’s plan revealed
I dedicated this post to Logan’s dog Pierre, our beautiful, sweet golden retriever. Pierre was 12 years old and was having trouble getting around. Sometimes we had to lift his back half to help him stand up—no problem for my strong Brandon, but definitely a challenge for me. Since our ideal pack size is two dogs, when one of them seems fairly close to the end of his life, we go ahead and add a third dog so everyone can become brothers before one of them goes to heaven. Also, the weakest one gets to chill while the other two play and get comfortable with each other.
Brandon knew in his heart that it was time, so he started looking for a third dog. Somewhat reluctantly, I started looking too. When I checked out the website for our local animal shelter, I found three dogs who caught my eye. My favorite was named Marvin. What a cutie. Right age. Right size. Adorable. He had a rough start in life and was easily startled. And the ad said he loved to snuggle. That sounded great.
The revelation
In late August, Brandon filled out the application for Marvin. The very next day, amazing things started to happen.
Wednesday, August 30
Journal entry
What a good day. Charlene and I had a good talk this morning. On my way to work, the Holy Spirit showed me that Marvin could be with me at St. Matt’s, which would really bless us both. I love that idea. Thanks be to God! He would give me added security and peace, and I would do the same for him. It would build our bond. Lord, we are in your hands. I mentioned this idea to Brandon, and he loved it. I thought about Marvin a lot today. I’ve shared his listing/photos with Meagan and Charlene. They think he’s adorable too.
Marvin’s foster mom called me later that day and I liked what I heard. I closed my journal entry with this prayer: “Holy Spirit, your will be done. I trust you in each step.”
A time to ask
The next day, I emailed Gail, the senior warden of the St. Matt’s vestry (board of directors). I asked her if I could have a dog at work since I’m alone in the building so much, now that Father Ben retired. Before Gail read my email, she came by the office and I asked her in person. Having retired from the insurance industry, she wondered about the insurance liability. She said: No shepherds, pits or rottweilers. (While Marvin’s listing said he was a pit bull, I knew in my heart that he was predominantly an American Staffordshire Terrier, or AmStaff, for short.)
Gail agreed to think about it. I journaled, “The Lord’s will be done.”
A time to see
Later that day, sweet, generous Paula stopped by St. Matt’s. As she was loading her SUV outside, I saw a dog running around with her. I stepped out and asked her if that was her dog, and she showed me her dog set-up in the back of her SUV—rubber mat, blanket, a small water bowl and a very happy dog. Translation: Frankie Ann, you can do this. I’m showing you the possibilities. I’m speaking to you. And I journaled, “Thank you, Lord. I’m at peace.”
September—God’s love
Two days after I came home from my Writing Retreat, we met Marvin. After our second visit that Saturday, he joined our family—three days before I turned 60. What a honey.
The love rush
From this post, subtitled The Replacements:
The day after my new dog Marvin came to live with us, I was sitting with him on the couch. All of a sudden, this tangible love rushed from my heart toward him. I could feel it physically. It was remarkable. Love rushed through me toward this sweet dog who’d had a hard life. Wow. As I petted and loved my new dog, I received God’s healing. Powerfully.
The day after Marvin arrived, important things were already revealed.
Sunday, September 10
Journal entry
He is a fast learner and is clearly eager to please. Marvin’s love and presence have been very therapeutic for me—beyond what I realized I needed. Lord, thank you SO much for bringing Marvin into my life. We needed each other. You are perfect, faithful, good, tender-hearted and generous. I praise and honor you! Marvin is warming up to Brandon. They’ve enjoyed good petting sessions too. We’re both so pleased about how quickly he’s adapting to our family. It’s amazing.
Unfolding
The day after we applied for Marvin online, the Holy Spirit revealed his plan that Marvin would go with me to work. During August, I experienced a one-month season of chest-tightening anxiety. I was alone at work at St. Matt’s. Even though the Lord healed me of my anxiety during my Writing Retreat over Labor Day weekend, his plan for Marvin and me continued to unfold.
Wednesday, September 13
Journal entry
I feel at peace in my heart that Marvin will be my going-to-work buddy. Gail emailed me on Monday that she will present my request to the vestry at their meeting [this month]. …Everything is falling into place. Even though my anxiety is gone now—thank you, Lord—I know Marvin’s companionship will be good for us both at St. Matt’s and he will bless many people. Also, Brandon will be more at peace. It amazes me when I think of all the roads that brought Marvin and me together. God is so good!
Really good
During his first month with us, Marvin did well on his leash and riding in Ralph (my SUV). Later in September, Marvin started doing The Zoomies in the backyard—running full-speed in big circles. We loved watching him, and Floyd started running with him. “Having a young dog here has been really good for us all—more time outside, more exercise. Happy days. Thanks be to God.”
The “yes” and the test
The vestry said yes to Marvin coming with me to work, and I sent off his DNA test. Since having a pit bull at St. Matt’s was a no-no, I needed to verify his genetic makeup.
Thursday, September 28
Journal entry
Marvin is doing so well. He loves having his own bed. Marvin’s Wisdom Panel test was received by the lab today. We should have his results in 2 to 3 weeks. …The Lord is encouraging me about that—reminding me how I always thought I had American Indian heritage, later finding out that I had African heritage. We see as in a mirror dimly. This time—after the approval to bring Marvin to work with me but before receiving his DNA results—will allow him to grow in peace and love in our family. He is being prepared for the times to come, as we all are. “Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised; and his greatness is unsearchable.” Psalm 145:3 [KJV]
The love
Marvin ended our first month sitting on my lap, and the next day—kissing my face. “I love my dog!”
From 1 John 4:8—
God is love.
See Psalm 36:7 and Romans 8:31-39.
October—God’s plan accomplished
The gift
God is in the details of the big things, like my new-to-me SUV, Ralph—and the smaller things.
Thursday, October 5
Journal entry
Sam brought me the most remarkable gift today—a dog travel backpack set. It includes lots of pockets, bowls, food containers and a mat for the bowls. I’ve been telling Brandon that I needed a backpack for Marvin’s job with me at work, and here it is! Lord, thank you so much for this Kiss On The Head from Jesus. You are so good to me. God is affirming, again and again, his plan for Marvin to be with me at work. That makes me smile. I absolutely adore my sweet dog.
When Sam and I talked several days later, great things were revealed. I hadn’t mentioned to her that I wanted a Marvin and Me Backpack. Sam bought dog travel bags for relatives’ dogs. She didn’t even realize that what she ordered was a backpack until it arrived. “The Holy Spirit told her multiple times to get it. Praise the Lord! It is perfect. It will hold Marvin’s stuff and my lunch/water. God is so good to me.” I mean us.
Results and the right time
We received Marvin’s DNA results: 69% American Staffordshire Terrier. Hallelujah. I shared his results with Gail. Later, I got the green light to move ahead.
On a peaceful Monday in October—exactly one week after our sweet Pierre died—Brandon and I brought Marvin to St. Matt’s for a visit. I didn’t realize that those two events were one week apart until I wrote this post. Hmmm.
Everything unfolded at the right time.
Day 1
The day after Marvin visited St. Matt’s, he started going with me to work. Here’s part of my journal entry about that evening.
Tuesday, October 24
Journal entry
We watched an episode of “The Zoo” that included a fox who is one of the main lady’s office buddies. What a sweet confirmation of God’s plan for me and Marvin. Lord, I love you. Your ways are perfect.
Marvin did great on our first day. But he wouldn’t get out of Ralph when we arrived at St. Matt’s. Hopping in was easy; hopping out was scary. So I had to physically drag him out. Ugh. That was stressful. (Thankfully, he conquered that fear the next week. Whew.)
Day 2
And our story—Frankie Ann and Marvin Go to Work—continued to unfold.
Wednesday, October 25
Journal entry
I sat on the floor beside Marvin’s bed [at St. Matt’s] while I ate my yogurt for breakfast. I love my dog! His presence is sweet. Kissing and petting him adds a beautiful tenderness to the [work] day.
God accomplishes his purposes.
See Proverbs 19:21.
November—God’s peace
In early November, I sent an email to Marvin’s foster mom, titled Marvin’s new job. I sent photos and an update on how he was doing. I thanked her and their rescue group for everything they did for him. I wrote, “I can’t imagine my life without my sweet, fun Marvin. He is perfect for me.” She replied, “Oh my goodness. This made me tear up. God sent Marvin angels. Thank you so much.” Receiving our update gave her peace about a fearful dog who was considered hard to place/adopt.
Thursday, November 9
Journal entry
Marvin is doing so well. I love having him with me at work. When I step out of the office, he comes to the [glass] door and watches for me. He is precious and very attentive.
What a beautiful thing to know the truth and to be at peace.
I am not alone. The Holy Spirit is always with me.
And he gave me a wonderful companion at work—my Marvin. Thank you, Lord, for every good gift.
Speaking of peace, one of the angels at St. Matt’s gave Marvin a really nice dog bed in November. Thanks, sweet Ruth. It’s a cozy spot for a nap.
December—God’s healing
Where he brought me
Do you journal faithfully?
Journaling helps us to see clearly and to praise God rightly.
Join me as A Journaler for Life—to celebrate the beauty of life—for as long as we’re able.
Reading through last year’s journal and then making notes about the themes and categories helped me to consider where I was when the year began and how far the Lord brought me during A Year in the Life as a child of God.
The beginning
When last year began, I was still icing my right elbow and doing stretching exercises from a torn ligament. (Read this post about that fall and the blessings of my Seven Days of Stillness.)
The middle
The day after the Volt croaked in July, I went to our chiropractor’s office.
Wednesday, July 12
Journal entry
The time on the tables was relaxing; my adjustment was good, as always; and my hand weight time was a reminder of all the healing God has done on my right elbow. It is much improved (probably 95% healed). Dr. Payne noticed some of my lifting and mentioned when I couldn’t do that before. Very encouraging.
The end
In December when I was lifting hand weights at our chiropractor’s, my arms felt so much stronger than before. “I think taking Marvin to work is strengthening me physically. Hallelujah!” While 95% healed is definitely something to celebrate and praise God for, he wanted more for me. I told my chiropractor last month that walking Marvin at work and the gentle tugging he does on his leash has stretched out my elbow and taken me where I wouldn’t have gone otherwise—healing me all the way. All glory to God.
Blessings and renewal
What wonderful and unexpected blessings from Marvin being my Work Pal. The Lord used Marvin to strengthen and heal me physically.
Most importantly, he stretched my heart—
one of the best things of all.
Let’s wrap up my Marvin post—a story of renewal—with three December journal entries filled with love and joy.
Friday, December 15
Journal entry
I sent Sam the Christmas card from Marvin and me to the vestry. She loved it. Marvin’s presence at work blesses me so much. I’m constantly saying to Brandon, “I love my dog.” I sure do.
Wednesday, December 20
Journal entry
Marvin asked for a second tour of part of the church this afternoon. He came over to me a lot today for hugs and kisses. He is such a sweetie. I’m so blessed by his presence in Ralph as I drive to and from work and throughout my workdays. Thank you, Lord, for my wonderful Marvin. Please give him strength, excellent health and a long, joyful life. Amen! Brandon talked about Marvin’s joy today. After Marvin and I got home from work, Brandon went out back and saw Marvin doing The Zoomies. That is joy, joy, joy. And speed and strength.
Monday, December 25—our first Christmas
Journal entry
I’ve been greatly blessed by my abundant snuggle time on the couch with Marvin these recent days. What a precious honey. He has changed my life.
Yes, Peaceful Readers. He has changed my life.
“I have seen his ways, and will heal him: I will lead him also, and restore comforts to him and to his mourners. I create the fruit of the lips: Peace, peace, to him who is far off and to him who is near,” says the LORD; “and I will heal him.”
Isaiah 57:18-19, New Heart English Bible
Coming next: Several weeks last year were big ones. Come back next time to read about the state of the family, sailing and Narnia.
Thanks for reading and for Choosing Peace.
Truth from The Word: Titus 3:4-7
Song: “Goodness of God” (Caleb + Kelsey Cover)
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