This Thing Is From ME


Life's disappointments are veiled love's appointments.

My child, I have a message for you today; let me whisper it in your ear, that
it may gild with glory any storm clouds that arise.

It is short - only five words, but let them sink into your inmost soul, use
them as a pillow on which to rest your weary head:

"This Thing Is From Me"

Have you ever thought that all that concerns you, concerns Me too? For "he
that toucheth you, toucheth the apple of Mine eye" (Zechariah 2:8).

I would have you learn when temptations assail you, and the "enemy comes in
like a flood," that this thing is from Me, that your weakness needs My might,
and your safety lies in letting Me fight for you.

Arc you in difficult circumstances? This thing is from Me. I am the God of
circumstances. Your surroundings and companions are only working out My will.

Are you in money difficulties? Is it hard to make both ends meet? This thing
is from Me, for I am your purse bearer, and I would have you draw from and
depend upon Me. My supplies are limitless (see Philippians 4:19). I would have
you prove My promises.

Are you passing through a night of sorrow? This thing is from Me. I am "The
Man of sorrows and acquainted with grief." I have let earthly comforters fail
you so that by turning to Me you may obtain everlasting consolation (see II
Thessalonians 2:16)

Has some friend disappointed you? One to whom you opened your heart? This
thing is from Me. I have allowed this disappointment to come so that you may
learn that I am your best friend.

Have your plans been all upset? Are you bowed down and weary? This thing is
from Me. You made your plans, then came asking Me to bless them, but I would
have you let Me plan for you and then I take the responsibility, for "this
thing is too heavy for thee; thou art not able to perform it thyself alone"
(Exodus 18:18). You are only an instrument.

Have you longed to do some great work for Me, and instead been laid aside on a
bed of pain and weakness? This is from Me. I could not get your attention in
your busy days, and I want to teach you some of My deepest lessons. "They also
serve who only stand and wait."

Some of My greatest workers are those shut out from active service, that they
may learn to wield the weapon of all-prayer.

Are you suddenly called to occupy a difficult and responsible position? Launch
out on Me. I am trusting you with the "possession of difficulties," and for
"this thing the Lord thy God shall bless thee in all thy works, and in all
that thou puttest thine hand unto" (Deuteronomy 15:10).

This day I place in your hand this pot of holy oil; make use of it freely, My
child. Remember, "interruptions are divine instructions." The sting will go as
you learn to see Me in all things; therefore, "set your hearts unto all the
words which I testify among you this day . . . for it is not a vain thing for
you; because it is your life: and through this thing ye shall prolong your
days in the land" (Deuteronomy 32:46,47).

- LAURA A. BARTON SNOW -