Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
“Since all the downward tracts of time
God’s watchful eye surveys,
Oh! why so wise to choose our lot,
And regulate our ways?
Since none can doubt His equal love
Unmeasurably kind,
To his unerring gracious will
Be every wish resigned.
Good when He gives, supremely good;
Nor less when He denies,
Even cross from His sovereign hand,
Are blessings in disguise.”
Brother Lawrence (1614-1691) in The Practice of the Presence of God: The Best Rule of Holy Life, being Conversations and Letters of Brother Lawrence. The third stanza of this poem is found in the front matter to the book.
The Practice of the Presence of God is another one from the list in 25 Books Every Christian Should Read: A Guide to the Essential Spiritual Classics. Herein Brother Lawrence teaches us how to navigate life. In short, remain in thankful prayer.
As you read this poem, did a word or phrase stand out to you? Ponder with the Spirit why this may be the case. What might God be saying to you? I was touched by three points linked to generosity and my current situation. Let me explain.
Firstly, I love the part that “none can doubt His equal love, unmeasurably kind.” Imagine if there was a limit to the love of God? We’d all be in trouble! He knows our needs and can measure what we need when we need it. Such amazing love and kindness!
Secondly, our God is “good when He gives, supremely good.” It inspires me that though I might have personal needs or GTP may have needs, because He’s supremely good, or in plain terms, because He’s the best, I can trust Him to supply.
Thirdly, and this really hit me: “nor less when He denies.” God’s goodness to us remains supremely good, even when He does not answer our requests as we offer them up, because His plans for us are even better than our own. They may just be blessings in disguise.
Father in Heaven, thanks for all your blessings and even for hard times. We resolve to rejoice always and pray continually with thankfulness. Shape us into humble submission to your will so our lives bring you glory. Hear our prayer in the name of Jesus. Amen.