Under God's Umbrella

by Macy Johnson

“I will restore the fortunes of Jacob’s tents

and have compassion on his dwellings;

the city will be rebuilt on her ruins,

and the palace will stand in its proper place.”

(Jeremiah 30:18 NIV)

 

It was our final handbell rehearsal before leading the worship service. One of the pieces tempted me to cross one hand over the other to pick up a bell. I accidentally set the bell down in the wrong place. Then I rang the wrong bell! Handbells, like most things in life, must be kept in their proper place.

 

A piano keyboard has stationary keys. I can close my eyes and strike the correct keys because my hands remember where each one will be in relation to the others.

 

I detoured on the way home from a doctor’s appointment and marched into Walmart in search of tissue wrap paper. The display shelves were in disarray. A box labeled “Tissue Wrap” caught my eye, but was unfortunately filled with gift bags. Under it was another box full of the prize I was looking for! It was hidden just for me to find.

 

Have you ever read Moses’ account of the building of the tabernacle? I recently read the details in the last five chapters of the book of Exodus. God gave the Israelites explicit instructions for every thread of linen, strand of goat’s hair, and ounce of gold to be used. He even named the skilled workmen to be assigned to the various tasks.

 

God has provided a special order to life. To know His will, I must stay in the center of it. To wander out from under His umbrella of protection is unwise, dangerous, and always leads to stormy confusion.

 

I will live and breathe in my proper place as the Holy Spirit leads. I hope you will, too!