Trusted to keep His promise.

My parents have recently installed a new fireplace in their house. This is something they have been dreaming of (and waiting for) for some time now. Before, this space was just a plain, white wall.. and now, suddenly it's become the main feature of the room (and looks quite fabulous I think). It's funny how with one change, in one moment, something like this plain wall can go from obscurity to prominence. 

After much waiting and anticipation (mostly on Mum's behalf) the actual fireplace was installed, however the mantel wasn't going to be there until the next day. So more waiting was unfortunately required.

I was thinking of David in the bible. One moment he was faithfully tending his sheep,  (not looking at his watch and pacing up and down mind you), but he was completely focused on the task at hand. And the next moment, because of the incredible character that had been developed so deeply within him, David was chosen; promoted, anointed and appointed with a new mantle to be king of all of Israel. When the timing is right, things happen.

{This is a little pic of me writing by the fire the other day.}

So now I sit here thinking about about the waiting season and all that it brings.  Sometimes (well who are we kidding, usually) we don't understand the wait. We want things to happen now, and this waiting and 'not knowing' can often bring confusion and all sorts of crazy thoughts. Then all of a sudden we find ourselves in a mess. But I'm coming to learn that whenever I'm in this place, all I can do is look up, because strength comes when I do. We might not feel in control, but someone else is. :) So let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep His promise.

And again as we cultivate an attitude of thankfulness, this takes our focus off the waiting. For I am about to do something new! See I have already begun! Do you not see it?!

Happy weekend. :)

nat x

Images - Natalie Box 

PS... Just a bit of random trivia for you: My family were having a discussion as to the correct spelling of mantel.. is it 'el' or 'le'? Anyway, we figured out that both are actually correct. Mantel and mantle are two different words. It's funny that although they are completely different words, their meanings both describe the nature of God.... ;)

Mantel = a ledge/support system that surrounds and protects the fire, it holds things up and helps display creativity. 

Mantle = a protective covering, a cloak, something that covers someone, a symbol of authority which can be transferred. 

Xx.