Adapted, by His Grace

Philippians 4:11-13 “Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. 12 I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. 13 I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” (NASB)

When we moved from the upper Midwest to the hills of the Ozarks in Missouri, I had to adapt to new surroundings and a different vocabulary.  Pop now meant my dad and soda was the carbonated beverage I hoped to order at the diner. That’s okay, I’ll get used to it, I thought.

When we moved from Missouri to the Pacific Northwest, I had to adapt to a weather pattern that was 9 months rainy and overcast vs. 3 months sunshine. Okay, I’ll bring an umbrella and light jacket wherever I go and relish the fleeting sunrays while I can.

When we moved from the Pacific Northwest back to Missouri, I knew what to expect and settled in my comfort zone.

When we moved from Missouri to rural South Dakota, raising the town population of 65 by ten percent with our family of 7, I learned to lead in my first call as pastor’s wife.

Many more times I would move to a new setting with new local quirks, adapting my responses and actions in accordance to the expected norms of the area. But through the adaptations of me one thing remained the same – the anchor that held me steady, the Rock upon which I stood was Jesus, the Word of God, and my calling to follow Him.

The Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary defines adapt in this way - to make fit (as for a new use) often by modification.

Adaptation is crucial to surviving in diverse locales. What works in the desert will not be effective in the rainforest. And though adapting to new environs may mean shelving certain desires for the sake of the call, I know that God will give me opportunities to work on neglected gifts or fruit of the Spirit I wouldn’t otherwise have attended to.

A pastor’s wife and mother of 5 has, by virtue of serving her family faithfully, developed leadership qualities beneficial to the church.

Anyone can appreciate the unique qualities of people and places all over this globe if they look through the eyes of our Heavenly Father.

After all, joy glows even brighter on a cloudy day, doesn’t it?

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How has God helped you to adapt to the place you are in currently?

 
[To read more posts on the word ‘adapt,’ click here -  Five Minute Friday Link-up. ]

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