“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” Isaiah 26:3
The greatest blessings come to us when they are not being sought. After all, mankind’s fallen nature seeks that which is pleasing to the flesh, that which the world deems of value. But true blessing is that which feeds the soul and grows the heart to resemble the heart of Jesus. There is no sweeter joy. There is no greater contentment than growing in Christlikeness.
One of my dearest blessings came about seven years ago when I met Miss Penny. I was invited to a small Bible study at her home. Miss Penny has studied God’s Word for 70 years and lives in full submission to her Lord and Savior. Sitting next to her in study was (and still is) like being bathed in the sweet countenance and wisdom of the Holy Spirit. Eventually she and I began meeting one-on-one on a weekly basis. This time with her is like a huge hug from the One Who created the universe. His light is so evident in her and is reflected to all around her.
On September 8th, I was notified by Miss Penny’s son that her husband had passed away the night before. They had been married for 66 years. Together they had served the Lord full-time through music ministry and Bible teaching. Since their son had an appointment that day which could not be canceled, he asked if I could sit with his 93-year-old mother so she would not be alone. Well, of course!
As I walked up to Miss Penny’s door at the assisted living complex, an aide, thinking I was family, said, “I’m sorry for your loss. And, by the way, she is amazing. She is so full of peace and joy.” My response was, “You do know that’s because of Jesus in her, right?” The aide replied with a smile, “I figured as much!”
Miss Penny and I prayed, cried, hugged, and even laughed that day. After a time of reflective silence, she softly said, “You know, I’m being ‘kept.’ It’s absolutely remarkable.” More silence followed. Then she recited the long-ago memorized verse I’ve listed at the top of the page from Isaiah – “Thou will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” I will never forget the genuine awe and sense of assurance in her voice as she recited this promise. Her Savior was with her. His grace never fails.
Father, keep my mind on thee! I long to be so kept!
I did not seek the blessing that I found in Miss Penny, but my Father brought her faith-filled example into my life at just the right time. Looking for blessing? It might not sparkle or spend, but it just might keep you in perfect peace when the unthinkable happens.
Joy in Jesus (no matter what),
Jacquee