Weak Signals and Busted Hoses

Have you ever noticed how many times something that you planned doesn't quite turn out like you thought it would? Someone once said that life is full of surprises, and in Guatemala you can multiply that by ten. 

Since we've been here we have had an issue with our internet signal that has caused some frustration because we can't talk to our families as we would like to. But again, there isn't much that we can do about it. These are things that are beyond our control. I think it is interesting that sometimes we get upset over things that we can't control. It would be good if we could all just learn to place those things in our Heavenly Father's hands. Let him worry about the weather, airplanes and people (things we can't control) and we will be free to do the work that he has called us to do! 

I want to go back to the "signal" issue for a moment. A signal is a connection, an invisible, but very real connection. This signal connects us to people that we are far from physically. A connection that brings us close again, even though we are not together. Although earthly signals get cut off and grow weak, I am thankful that our connection with God is never cut off, and it never grows weak. His Word reminds us that even when we are weak he is strong! The signal that I am referring to is Grace! We need his grace to sustain us and give us strength when we feel like our signal is weak.

And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. (II Corinthians 12:9 NKJV)

God's signal never grows weak and is never interrupted by outside forces. But that doesn't stop the outside forces (Satan) from trying to distract and divide and rob us of our strength.

On our way to the Village yesterday we started up the mountain and the truck ran hot and cut off. Here we are again, on the side of the road, trying to do God's work and go preach, and now we are sitting on the side of the road and waiting for help to arrive. The problem? A busted hose, the radiator was empty, no water (for the non-mechanics, that is not a good thing)! Busted hoses lead to empty radiators. So what's the point? You know what a hose is right? Right? Okay, I'll tell you, it's a CONNECTION! There was a weakness in the connection that caused the radiator to be empty of what was necessary for the vehicle to run properly. 

I wonder how many Christians are trying to serve The Lord with a weak signal and a busted hose? We try to go on our own strength and we try to climb mountains not relying on God's grace, and when we do we are going to find our selves weak and empty. Are you missing a connection with The Lord today? His grace is enough! He is full of grace and truth, and he can fill you with strength and power to live and serve him each and everyday.

Well, our first day was a doozy and I'm sure more surprises and challenges await us around each turn and over each mountain top, but thankfully, unlike the internet and the hose, God's strength never fails!