The 4-H Pledge

A Good Listener

Sometimes I wonder if God really and truly hears my pleas and requests. Isn’t He too busy to tend to my pains and problems? Does He get irritated when my thoughts wander and I forget to finish my prayer? This verse clearly squashes any doubt that almighty God does not hear our prayers. God speaks in the first person, saying, “I will answer ... I will hear.” These words in Isaiah portray our Lord and Savior actively, attentively, and most earnestly listening to the prayers of His children. Imagine a father patiently hearing his child tell of his problems when you read, “while they are yet speaking, I will hear.” God our Father knows what is best and will answer with a loving, good, and divine response.

Getting Through With God

There have been many times in our lives that Liz and I have wondered how we will get through a difficult situation. For us, one such day was on July 23, 2025, when we had to bury our son, Joel. The pain was overwhelming, and we didn’t know if we would be able to get through the day. It was at that time we realized there was Someone by our side, namely, the Lord. He is the One who could give us strength. He is the only One with all-surpassing power. He is the One that can accomplish anything. By the power of the Spirit, we just needed to trust Him and believe that He would provide the strength for the day. If you have lost a loved one, try relying on the all- surpassing power of the Lord to get you through and see what happens.

New Ways to Trust

When Roy waved to his neighbor, he noticed John’s usual smile was absent. He walked over and learned that John had lost his job. Roy shared that he experienced the same years ago. “We had to learn new ways to trust God. He provided what we needed and the patience to wait.” Roy went on to say, “If God knows the hairs on our head, He knows your need and has a place for you.” Before they parted, the men prayed together. Roy reminded John that God knows our losses, where we are, where He wants us to be, and when He wants us to get there (Psalm 139). Losses may come as financial challenges, relationship changes, or job loss. With God as our stable foundation, we can trust Him to meet us in any circumstance.

Our Caring Father

The woods behind our house give us multiple opportunities to view wildlife. One spring morning a doe walked out of the trees with two spotted fawns. Our dog barked through the window at the trio, but all they did was perk their ears. The youngsters stayed close to the security of mom as she led her children to fresh grass and leaves. The babies were never left alone for even a short amount of time. God is a better parent than any wild creature. Because of Christ’s sacrifice, we are invited to access His security, abundance, and protection. Like the baby deer, when we remain close to our heavenly Parent’s side, we are led to the green pastures of provision. We can live reassured that our caring Father will never leave us or forsake us.

Christ Is My Anchor

My husband and son enjoy fishing together. They find a place on the lake where they can turn off the motor and drop anchor so they will be safe from drifting off course. Then, they cast their reels knowing they are in a good spot with a solid hope of successfully bringing home a good catch for supper. A life centered solidly on Jesus Christ is our best place to find lasting peace. With our faith anchored in Him, whether we are joyful or troubled, we pray, wait, and know for certain that we can always flee to Him for refuge and comfort. We can always trust the Lord to be our anchor of strength, love, and faithfulness against sorrows and despair. So, we hold fast to the sure hope of eternal life, which calms our souls.