And yet, and yet…

In my office I have a nice yew wood desk. It was donated to the church and has served me very well. If I’m being honest, the quality is far beyond what I would have bought for myself so I feel blessed to get to use it. From the front side it communicates stability and order. It speaks to professional organization and attentive care. It speaks exactly as I would want my office desk to speak.

Yet from the inside, I see another perspective. In my compulsive nature, it consistently bugs me. Because of years of steady use and chairs being pulled up to it, the edge of the desk has consistently been chipped back. From the outward appearance, the grain has held firm. But there is wear.

Lately our family has been dealing with some medical issues which is nothing new for us. But in this season, it has hit hard on energy. We keep a pretty high pace, serving and organizing and keeping order. But on my inside, while I continue to minister and press on I feel the chipping.

When Isaiah 40 tells us that those that wait on the Lord shall renew their strength and mount up with wings like eagles, sometimes we feel the chipping. It’s of note to me that the verse begins with “Even youths shall faint and be weary and young men shall fall exhausted…”

Friend, you may find yourself on the chipped edge in your life today. It may feel like the chaos and disorder will only continue. And yet, the miracle comes as the Lord renews our strength. This is not the end. This is not the end. This is not the end.

Press on friend, knowing that His strength and understanding do not fail.