Why We Call Our Blog the Miracle of More

The miracle is a beautiful image of Ephesians 3:20--more than I can ask or imagine. Every day is a miracle. Every moment is a miracle. Specifically for our family, the miracle of more is our family growing in ways I would never have imagined when we first committed to adoption 8 years ago. But, the greatest miracle is the change in ME!

If you have questions about adoption, our work in South Africa, or spina bifida, please email me at rbmattox@bellsouth.net

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

When God Speaks

If only I could slow down enough to truly hear our sweet Savior speak. His love is overwhelming, his word is powerful, He is!

As I've continued to pray about the possibility of a mission trip for Josie-Tatum and me, I've heard from God through His word and through a faithful servant.

In the book of Mark, I read a familiar verse, but felt more convicted than ever before. In Chapter 6, I read, "And he could there do no mighty work, save that he laid his hands up9on a few sick folk, and healed them. And he marveled because of their unbelief." Can you imagine Jesus "marveling?" I know the unbelief of the people of Nazareth did not take him by surprise, but it caused him to marvel.

I thought of Ellie when I read this nearly 3 weeks ago. I pondered the times my unbelief may have hindered his work. When I have worried about Ellie, has He marveled? And, then tonight, the Holy Spirit brought this passage to my remembrance again. Could it be my lack of faith that makes me hesitant to commit to the mission trip to South Africa? I am convinced now, more than ever, that my God will provide where He leads.

And, last week, I went to Katie's blog. If you have never heard of Katie, you must follow the link here, and read her post from March 4th. What a challenging, take me out of my comfort zone thought. When Jesus said, "Sell all that you have, and give it to the poor," what if he wasn't kidding? You have to see Katie's photos for the full impact of that question.

As a child of the KING, I don't beleive in coincidence. I teach 1st-3rd graders in Sunday School. I didn't get to teach the lesson, because Josie-Tatum was sick, but I was struck with awe when the lesson for the week was the same scripture Katie referred to. I was compelled to ask, "God, what are YOU telling me?"

Then, just in case I hadn't heard the message loud and clear, I turned on the radio Monday morning, and the program on the radio was based on the same scripture.

So, I've really begun to ask myself...am I serious about God's command to care for orphans? Do I trust Him to provide for them? Am I willing to sacrifice until it hurts? Will I give of my abundance, or share my necessities?

If you'd like to continue to help me pray, here's the latest revision of my prayer request. I will go to South Africa, or anywhere the LORD leads. I'm waiting to hear from Stan...aka my husband. He hasn't heard from God yet, as I have certainly asked him to pray. This may come as a surprise to some of you (well, not my immediate family, or close friends, or distant relatives), but I have trouble with submission. I know, I know, you're all in shock. I am totally committed to Stan's decision on this issue, though. I know that I know that, if God wants Josie-Tatum and me to go to South Africa this summer, He will speak to Stan. So, will you help me pray that Stan hears from the LORD? Will you pray that I will remain willing to follow his lead?

Thank you for your prayers. I continue to read God's word, to hear Him speak. Thank you for your prayers for Josie-Tatum. She slept last night and only woke up once. I thought she might make it to school tomorrow, but her fever went back up some this afternoon.

AND...BIG SHOUT OUT PRAISE! ALEKSEY HAS A FAMILY! Another child with spina bifida has found a family, willing to accept the unknowns, willing to love the child!!!!

Blessings,
Robbie

9 comments:

Terry said...

I remember reading Katies entry for that day. Robbie, I know that God will give you ALL the answer. And I know that the Lord is going to use Josie tatum for wonderful and amazing things in this world. I've been struggling to hear God too lately. Love you girlfriend....

Grimes Family said...

Our journey truly is charted by God, and we are just along for the ride. Sometimes its fun, sometimes frightening, etc... As I read about your challenges I was reminded of something Mark always says, "God never leads where He cannot provide." The money will fall from heaven as you step out in faith obedient to His call.
You know how Mark wanted an "Ellie" twin? We just may have her! She is beginning to come out of her shell.

Anita said...

Dear Robbie - I know that the Lord will make it clear for both you and Stan and am praying for you as you wait on His answers. And don't you just love Katie's heart and her blog!! But also love your heart and JT's hearts for the other children who are left waiting for families. God will provide where He leads...yes He will. HUGS!

Sarah said...

It's hard to wait to hear from God, isn't it?

Off to visit the linked blog...

One Happy Momma said...

Praying for your answers on taking this mission trip.

We were given some scripture on Sunday at church for Managing Material Resources and this one jumped out to me and thought I would share.

It is not the will of God that followers of Christ be absorbed with worry about the future and how their material needs will be met.

"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself." Matthew 6:34a

I have to remember this one a lot. :)

Again I will be praying for you.

Blessings -

Cathy

Joanna said...

Praying that your Hubby has a very clear word from God. Sometimes He just wants to know if we're willing. And other times He wants to know if we'll walk the walk.

May you know what to do and have peace that passes all understanding.

Gwen Oatsvall said...

oh sister we both suffer from the lack of "submission" disease ... lol ... I will be in prayer with you ... and yes, Katie has changed my life also in so many ways .. my prayer life, my thought life, my spending habits, my conversation, and so much more ...

blessings on your week !!!

Table for Six said...

let me know if you feel China is on the mission possibility. I know several different opportunities to serve God and his orphans. one of which is the place we (sarah and i ) went to.. she was 6. It was amazing. and of course you know the Drew story from that trip! :O)

love you jill

Table for Six said...

and i want to add that I will be praying for Africa and your possible trip there. I am so excited for you! i can't wait to hear how this unfolds!

oh.. and the submission part.. hardest thing EVER. but possible.:)

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