As you read this, I am in Minnesota. It’s cold up here in the north country! But my heart is warm and full as Scott and I enjoy visiting family. We left Colorado a day earlier than planned to beat the winter storm but, alas, we traveled over 800 miles on snow covered, icy roads. Yesterday, we drove from Bismarck, North Dakota to Bemidji, Minnesota — yes, on snow covered roads. I humbly admit that I did complain but, as I look back, I praise my Lord for safe travel and a husband who will continue driving when he knows I’d rather not, scrape the windshield so I don’t have to, and fill with gas so I can stay in the warm car.

We spent four days with my son and his family. Not once did we get our afternoon nap (for which I will not apologize. Indeed, I brag about my ability to fall asleep sitting up). Again, no grumbling was justified. We were blessed to watch our grandsons during wrestling matches and basketball games, wake each morning to two very large and happy dogs, and spend time laughing and enjoying time together.

Are you like me? In moments of distress or times of interrupted routines, I often don’t see the good, but looking back on the day I see God’s hand. His hand is always upon me. God’s plans are always for my good. For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope (Jeremiah 29:11).

Today, I will ask God to help me see His hand as I go through unknown valleys. The Lord blesses us with a landscape of valleys and mountains. Tomorrow and throughout this week, as Scott and I continue visiting relatives and friends, we will travel through winter weather, and I will ask God to help me see Him in each moment. By the grace of God, I will feel His hand upon my shoulder and trust in His grace and mercy.

Dear Lord, help me see Your hand in all situations. When I hesitate, direct my thoughts to You and Your love. Let my desire be to run to You for comfort, trust in You in all things, and praise Your name in the valleys and on the mountain tops. You walk alongside me. I am not alone. My family is safe in Your arms. You give me a future and a hope and my strength comes from You. I thank You and praise Your name. Alleluia and Amen!

Today, and always, we are surrounded by HIS grace,

Debbie