Here is a post of praise. A post from a grateful heart. From a heart that wonders at the way God gently brings us, guides us, into His plan and purpose. I had given over my concept of an ideal family life years ago. When you're married to someone intent on making it on his own, life won't be predictable.
But my heart still wanted my ideal family. Yearned. Longed for. Craved. After many years, I gave up on that as well. No fourth baby. Sadly, this broken heart even understood that "giving up" is not at all the same thing as "giving over" But it was all I could manage. And I claimed that precious phrase in Hebrews 13 "be content with such things as ye have; for he has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you.'" And it took some time, but at some point, I had even made peace with it. This is our little party of five - full of sweetness and gentleness and adventure.
And then wonder of wonders. Miracle of miracles! God gave us a new little life, little patter of feet, little smile. There is a 6th little voice in this house who is so happy. She fills us with joy and makes us complete. And I think how good the Lord is. It's a gift He's given us. We were prepared to say - ok, God, we're a family of 5, and it's a wonderful little family. And we love you, God! But, He said, I haven't forgotten your request. I haven't let go of your desire. And my timing is perfect!
There's so much innocence in a newborn. Grandma always said you have to teach a baby everything. "Of all God's miracles large and small, the most miraculous one of all, Is the one I thought could never be - God has given [her] to me."
And because this blog is devoted to the craziness of life - it wouldn't be complete without reminding myself that not only was she a surprise, pregnancy was so far from my thinking that we were into the second trimester before we discovered her existence. Whatever maternity clothes, baby clothes, and paraphernalia I had left was sold at the annual summer garage sale - while I was pregnant!! Oh my!
Even that! Even in the unknown, I am again amazed at how God gently cares for our hearts. After the last miscarriage, I would have been a nervous wreck for 12 weeks - waiting, wondering, worrying. Instead, He turned me to Himself - to His Word - to a summer of prayer as we waited on Him for other things in the midst of uncertainty. By the time we discovered the pregnancy, there was no time to worry - she was past the danger point and any other "preparedness" I could have done was in God's hands. This was all about God giving us a blessing and watching Him provide.
And so with a grateful heart, I claim and repeat:
"Delight yourself also in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart." Ps. 37:4
Is there ever a better time to praise the Lord then when He brings new life into this world?! Would you thank Him today? If you've read any of my posts you know how very much this means!!
"I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart. Wait for the Lord." Ps. 27:13-14
