Divine Directions from the Booster Seat
Thirty-One Meditations from God through Reagan to Me and Now to You – Part Two
by
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COVID: The Refiner's Fire
August 9, 2020
The COVID 19 virus has pretty much brought a halt to most things. While Reagan and I were trying to figure out what we could go do together, we ended up making a list of things we wanted to do but couldn't because of the pandemic. On this particular day, we felt like going swimming but we did not have a reservation, so that activity was not possible. As she shrugged her shoulders and exhaled with a big sigh, she made a rather startling statement.
“Nana, I think God has the COVID virus here because He wants us to be stronger. He wants us to fight harder.”
Wow! It never ceases to amaze me what comes out of the mouths of babes! What would prompt her to say that?
Our conversation did not stay very heavy for very long because other important things like my needing to know the names of the My Little Ponies living in Equestria were also very high on her list. However, she did make it abundantly clear that we all should try really hard to be strong. She insisted that if we could just “fight” harder, we would be successful. It was interesting to me that when she told me we needed to fight, she raised her arm and put up a firm fist.
As Reagan correctly stated, the desire to push and fight is usually a needed asset for success and is an admirable one when harnessed to an appropriate goal. I immediately think of all the hours of dedicated study and work that are required in all professions for achievement. There are also many people who “fight” just to survive the day. Persistence and endurance show up in all different shapes and sizes.
Rather than just being upset about the way the virus had disrupted her schedule, Reagan saw it as an opportunity to be stronger because of the challenge. Instead of being crippled by the circumstance, she was expressing ways to be made better by it. In spiritual terms, we might say it was a chance to be molded by the “Refiner’s fire”.
How many of us can say we enjoy the process of going through the proverbial fire? We may place different labels on it: pruning, shaping, molding. I am not sure I know anyone who actually relishes going through military basic training, but most would probably agree that the experience proved valuable.
I remember, when I was in the seventh grade, a US Marine came to speak to our class. He explained what a difficult time he had had when he went through his initial training. He described being sleep deprived and unsure if he could endure it. In fact, he struggled and was held back from the graduation. Apparently, those who were in charge must have appreciated his grit and determination when he did finish the course. He told us that the experience prepared him to be a better Marine. I remember looking at him as he stood straight and tall in front of our class and feeling great admiration for him.
We can summon the strength to face all sorts of obstacles when we put our trust in the One who creates, knows, and loves us. Jesus does not promise us an easy life. In fact, we are told that we will have tribulation. But because Jesus has overcome the world, our peace can be found in Him.
I am thankful that Reagan has the desire to push through and persevere when things are hard. I hope and pray that she will grow to understand that she does not have to rely upon her own strength. As she is being refined by the fire, she can learn to draw from the Lord’s strength to withstand the heat.
Key Thought
The Lord's strength enables us to fight.
Scripture
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Lord, we confess that we do not understand many of our trials. Our challenges are often very hard and sometimes we yield to the temptation to want to give up. But we know that You are Sovereign over all our circumstances. You are the only one who can protect us from ourselves and our situations. Our peace can only be found only in You. We pray for Your protection and strength not only to endure our hardships but to thrive amidst them. Thank you for making what seems insurmountable entirely possible. In Your holy name we pray. Amen.
For Further Reflection
1. Was your response to the COVID virus anything like Reagan's?
2. Do you remember a“Refiner's fire" experience and the impact it had upon you?
3. What would have been your response to Reagan's comment?
4. Describe what it means to you to be at peace.
Formats
Book Details
About the Book
When Reagan Marie Bailey was born in the fall of 2013, the world was forever changed for author Deborah Denison Bailey and her husband. Now proudly called Nana and Bampa, they enjoy the wonderful blessing of loving their precious granddaughter, a shining star who makes God’s light brighter in their lives.
When Reagan began to talk, Nana Bailey jotted down the remarkable things Reagan said because she felt they would be important keepsakes. As time progressed, she sensed the Lord wanted her to use Reagan’s words for His good purpose. Through the years, she’s learned the innocent remarks of a child can have a profound and lasting impact upon all who hear, especially when applying those lessons from the newly gained insight.
Now from the mouth of a child, her granddaughter, Deborah has again transformed those simple musings into another volume of thought-provoking meditations. In Divine Directions from the Booster Seat, she shares thirty-one important Christian messages. With discussion questions included, this guide is suitable for individual or group use, inviting participants to search their hearts and reflect on life’s spiritual journey.
About the Author
Deborah Denison Bailey earned a Bachelor of Music and Master Arts in Human Relations and Health Facilities Management. She has enjoyed a successful career as a music therapist, music director, activity professional, and featured vocalist. Deborah and her husband, Paul, have a son, daughter, and granddaughter, Reagan. They reside in Colorado Springs, Colorado.