Quiet Days of Summer

View of a rainbow from the balcony of my daughter's apartment, here in Vermont.

Things are very quiet in our rural mountain village.  The grounds of our property have dried out from recent flooding. The scenery is beautiful and peaceful. Yet, as I slowly drive down the driveway to do errands, I notice the large trench on the front grounds. I see the damage to the top of our driveway. There is a large hole where it joins with the street. I see all these little bits of damage, but the beauty around it comforts me with a sense that all is well. Repairs will happen as time and strength allow.  

I have been busy indoors baking and cooking and enjoying visits from some of our grandchildren.  I have been watching sermons on DVD and listening to the quiet sounds of hymns and gospel music from a CD player.  My heart is nourished and quieted by the precious goodness of the dear Lord. 

While there have been many trials, sometimes several a day, I am reminded of the example of my parents.  Through all the difficulties they had to endure, they enjoyed each day.  Their faith and strength came from the Lord. Mother would be talking on the phone, hearing about some upsetting problem regarding a grown child, and then she would give it to the Lord and go about her day. She and Dad enjoyed reading the Bible, going to church, and saying precious, old-time prayers.  They would take rides in the country, go out for breakfast, and enjoy their lovely home. Through massive health difficulties or trials within the family, they were the kindest, sweetest people you could ever know. Their faith and trust in the Lord made them that way.

 I love what Dr. Charles Stanley said in one of his sermons: "We don't look around. We look up."  In moments of crisis, I must remember these words of wisdom. 

I have two open Bibles in my room. One is open to the passage in Isaiah 26:3, which says, "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee."  When I am about to panic over some trouble, or when I am filled with fear or dread, I go and read this verse directly from the Bible that I love so dearly.  It is a promise that I claim.  It soothes all my fears and worries. It is medicine to my ailing soul.  

There is joy in our days when we have a quiet, grateful heart.  We have to keep seeking joy as we seek peace and pursue it.  We do this by focusing on that which is good and lovely. We focus on the Lord. We do not allow ourselves to dwell on the bad. That will take away our joy. When we walk towards the light, the light of goodness and holiness, the darkness goes away.

Today will be a glorious day of happiness. I will consider the positive things and enjoy the blessings.  There is a sense of quiet and calm in my heart, just like this summer day in our rural Vermont village.  Our humble estate is like a lighthouse of hope and help.  To the best of my ability, I will serve the family and bring cheer to those around me.

Blessings

Mrs. White

From the Archives -

It is all I ever want to be - Secretary to the Master. 

Peaceful, quiet Living - Sunday Driver. 

Ration Books from 1942 and helpful advice - Adapting to the High Cost of Living.

 

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 "At Mother's House" by Mrs. White:

  

For Encouragement in Homemaking, order Mrs. White's book, from 2016, "At Mother's House: The Blessing of Being a Christian Housewife."

In this book, you will find essays, articles, and diary entries about life in a Christian home.

There are 40 entries which include:  "Poor and Pretty Living;" "A Home Without Clutter;" "The Money Packets;" "A Church Diet for the Family;" "Bringing Home Baby;" "The Children's Prayers;" "The Shabby Garden:" and "Just a Housewife."

Those who are seeking a peaceful home, with the Lord as the foundation, will find encouragement. (Paperback, 122 pages.)