It's 9:45 pm and I just got home from working in the fields. When we started baling this afternoon the weather looked pretty foreboding. A storm was heading our way. We saw lightening off in the distance.
(We are located just southwest of Clarksville.) What to do? Send up a quick prayer. Nothing fancy. A simple prayer, along the lines of Max Lucado's words in his wonderful little book Before Amen:
Father.
You are good.
I need you.
We need you.
Please help us.
Thank you.
In Jesus's name.
Amen.
Within minutes, the storm seemed to just fizzle out.
Not a drop of rain fell on us. The sky cleared up and displayed her beauty.
I can think of no one who depends on God more than farmers. We depend on him for sunlight, for rain, and for health. For equipment that works. And even to withhold the rain when needed. In an agrarian region of the nation like mine, good weather is all-important. Jesus knew this. He reminded us that God sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous alike (Matt. 5:45). He makes no distinction between the wicked and the good. He gives good gifts to both in equal portion. God not only graciously gives good things. He graciously withholds things. I can't tell you how many times the forecast called for a storm when we needed to bale and the Lord held if off. It's a beautiful reflection of his love for us. My gratitude knows no bounds.
Thank you, Lord.
Thank you.
Thank you.