Stiff-Necked and Hard-Hearted

*Two nights ago, a terrible storm swept through our area. As usual, I found myself worrying and praying, specifically for the trees in our front yard at Fair Haven. I asked God to protect them. While the storm raged, I watched the news, and the newscasters were dramatic in their descriptions of its intensity. It sounded like devastation was inevitable.

The next morning, as we left downtown Knoxville and drove toward Fair Haven, I braced myself. I fully expected to see trees down all along the way. But as I drove down the interstate—lined with trees as far as the eye could see—I noticed something strange. Not one was down. I thought to myself, “That’s odd. I was sure I’d see storm damage by now.”

And in that quiet moment, God spoke to my heart:

 "Lee, your glass isn’t just half full—it’s running over and spilling into your lap. Look at all the trees I protected. But you’re focused on the one you expected to fall."

I couldn’t help but laugh out loud and share it with Betty.

By the end of the day, I realized—I hadn’t seen a single tree down. Not one.

This morning, while reading the Bible, I was reminded how often God called His people “stiff-necked” and “hard-hearted.” And I had to admit… I can often be a stiff-necked, hard-hearted Christian.

I’m sorry, Lord.

*Checked with Grammarly and ChatGPT