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The Lord is my light and my salvation—
whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life—
of whom shall I be afraid?
Psalm 27:1 ESV

There’s a snake in the basement!

My dear friend and her kids were visiting, and we were all preparing to go to bed. Both of us being widows, there was no man around to handle the snake problem.

I did the only thing I could do. I said a quick prayer, got a jar, and trapped the little beast.

Blessedly, it went well, and it peacefully went into the jar. It was not aggressive, and I did not have to chase it around the room.

It was a baby snake, about the size of a large worm.

Now, I am not overly fond of snakes, but not terribly afraid of them, either. So, I was somewhat proud of myself, and told the story of my snake escapades to friends.

My friends were less than impressed.

What if there are more?

What if it had been poisonous?

What if it had bitten you?

I had, of course, thought of all these things.

I just didn’t see that I had a choice.

In this journey of widowhood, I am often called upon to do unexpected things, often on the spur of the moment. No time to worry. No time to shrink back or shirk my responsibilities. Just pray and do.

And trust God with the results.

This somewhat humorous situation provided for me just one more example of the life lesson God has been working on with me over the past few years: God’s got it.

I am not really in charge; He is.

So many situations, I just have to prayerfully (often quickly) consider my options, try my best, and leave the results up to Him.

If I do that, He will be glorified.

Isn’t it funny how God will take the little things in our lives to teach us big things?

I can’t help but wonder if that was what is was like for David.

In service to both his earthly father and his heavenly One, David had watched the sheep, keeping them safe. I am sure he had many escapades himself. We know that he killed a lion and a bear (see 1 Samuel 17), but I am sure there were many other adventures as well. All of this seems to have been used by God as preparation for his encounter with Goliath. Not only had he developed skill with a sling that could be used there, but also a trust in God that when He gave David a task, David was capable to complete it.

Who else but me can complete the work I have been assigned?

I may be able to shrink from one task, but can I shrink from my whole life? Can I hold back when it is obvious that God has given me certain things to do?

Oh, dear sisters, I pray that you have the courage to face this journey of widowhood and whatever tasks He has set before you! The little things and the big things can all be accomplished through Him who is our glory and our strength!

Dear Father, thank You for being with us on every step of this path. Thank You for loving us enough to challenge us on this journey to grow stronger and more confident in You. Help us to feel Your love and support, Lord, as we grow in You. Help us to think on our feet when we must and slow down and wait for You when necessary. We long to glorify Your name. Help us to do that. In Your name we pray, Amen.