The Plumbline

I am planning for vacation.  One of the nice parts about vacation is the time to "sit and reflect" which I like to build into these times away.  I have a great travel companion who is also quite content to curl up with a good book, take a wee nap each day, or just take in some quiet time along the water's edge.  In turn, we make good use of the "refreshing" which comes from these moments of rest.  I usually spend time in study and reflection - journal close at hand to capture whatever God may give.  Ear buds will be in place with the favorite worship tunes playing.  Aaaahhh!  I can almost feel the stress melting away in those moments! You who sit down in the High God's presence, spend the night in Shaddai's shadow, s ay this: " God , you're my refuge.  I trust in you and I'm safe!"  That's right—he rescues you from hidden traps,  shields you from deadly hazards.  His huge outstretched arms protect you— under them you're perfe...

There is an old saying, "Don't count your chickens before they're hatched".  The idea is of not being so assured of a positive outcome until you actually see the outcome beginning to occur.  Not every "egg" contains a chicken!  I'd never eat eggs again if they did!  The need to have "hope" is inherent in most of our dealings in life - we invest something with the "hope" of getting something in return.  We would be very disinterested in life if nothing ever happened, right?   First plant your fields;  then build your barn.  (Proverbs 24:27 The Message) This is a very short passage taken from the Book of Proverbs.  It is listed as a "wise saying".  Indeed, it has a few very important implications to us about the choices we make.  Let's explore: - First plant your fields.  I am not a farmer, so if I don't do this justice, excuse me right up front, but I will report what I have observed.  A farmer can have a luxuri...