Got Wood?

In my house there is a fireplace in the living room and a wood stove in the basement. My ex-husband had a chainsaw, and I’d help him split wood and stack it in the basement. However, when he left I worried. What if the power goes out? I don’t have a chainsaw. This house is big and old. How will I protect my kids if the power goes out? One morning I felt God tell me,

I love you! I fed over 5,000 people with five barley loaves and two fishes (Mark 6:30-44). I can provide wood for your family this winter without a chainsaw. Live hesed. Live joyfully.

Later that day, my ex said his family was going to cut wood. He asked if I’d like to go along and they would cut some for me also. I was so worried they would get most of it, and I would still be left looking for wood for the winter. I didn’t realize it at the time, but apparently I was very selfish. After cutting and splitting wood all day, the three pickups full of wood headed back to town. To my surprise, the other two pickups followed me to my house.

Don’t you want some of this? I asked.

No, they replied. We only needed a little bit, and we got it this morning before we came to help.

That night I cried. I repented of my selfishness and worry. I prayed for and blessed the four wonderful people who selflessly gave their day off to cut wood for my children and me. I prayed thanks and blessings to my Lord. I worshiped my God, who provided wood for us, even though I didn’t have a chainsaw or a log splitter!

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Phillipians 4:6-7