Good Morning Girls!  Do you consider yourself a problem solver?  Do you like to take charge?  Are you one to take matters into your own hands?  Would others describe you as an independent thinker?  These characteristics are generally thought of as good, strong character traits.   Employers often seek out individuals with these qualities. However, in a world of "it's all about me"  thinking, these traits can gets us into trouble.  The Bible is full of examples of people who "took matters into their own hands".  Take Sarah for example.  She was tired of waiting on the Lord for her child, so she sent her servant to sleep with her husband.  She took matters into her own hands and had to live with the consequences.  (Until she had Haggai sent away, again solving her own problems).  What about the Israelites?  For 40 years they fought the Lord trying to do things their way.  When God didn't respond fast enough, they took matters into their own hands by melting all of their gold and making a giant gold calf idol.  By solving their own problem they angered God and lost all of their jewelry!  It's easy to look at these examples and think "I never do anything this drastic".  Are you sure?  When you feel backed against a corner, do you frantically search for a way out, or do you call on the Lord and wait?  Do you promote yourself and your ways when you feel like you deserve a little recognition? Or do you wait, knowing that God sees all of your work, and will promote you at the perfect time?  When your finances are a mess, do you act impulsively and make hasty decisions?  Or, do you turn to the Lord and say "I know you see me.  I know you know my needs.  I thank you today for what you are doing for me and my family".  It is good to be an independent thinker when talking about independence from the world's views.  How often have you found yourself being an independent from God thinker? The Word says to cast your cares on Him, not run around frantically trying to solve your own problems.  Next time you feel your mind racing as you search for your own answers to problems that are better solved by the Lord, stop and take a moment to rest in Him.  Cry to Him for help.  Let Him bring you peace as He works out the details of your life.  Wait on the prompting of the Holy Spirit to let you know when it is time for you to take action.  If you let God take your matters into His hands, your outcome will be victorious.  And, you won't have to send away the servant, and lose all your jewelry!

Micah 7:7  As for me, I look to the Lord for help.  I wait confidently for God to save me, and my God will certainly hear me!!!!!

Love you all- Have a blessed weekend!
Jen