By Rosie Moore
Although it sometime seems to us
Our prayers have not been heard,
God always knows our every need
Without a single word….And He will not forsake us
Even though the way seems steep,
For always He is near to us, tender watch to keep….
And in good time He’ll answer us
And in His love He’ll send
Greater things than we have asked and blessings without end.
So though we do not understand why trouble comes to man
Can we not be contented just to know it’s God plan.
This lovely poem was written by Helen Steiner Rice, an American writer of religious and inspirational poetry, was born in Lorain, Ohio, on May 19, 1900. Her father, a railroad worker, died in the influenza epidemic. She campaigned for women’s rights and improved working conditions.
In 1929 she married Franklin Rice, a banker. After the stock market crash in 1929, he lost his job. He went through a state of depression from which he never recovered and committed suicide in 1932. She became a successful business woman and lecturer but her most satisfying outlet was writing verse for Gibson Greeting Card Co. In 1960 several of her poems were read by Aladdin on the poetry segment of the Lawrence Welk television show.
When I read of her husband’s suicide, it brought to my mind the suicides of celebrities, especially in the last few weeks. I had to wonder, although I certainly can’t judge, why these travesties happen. Did they not believe in God? Could they not rely on Him to help them through dark times? Evidently, their wealth did not bring happiness. Alas, everyone knows that having a lot of money does not constitute a happy life, even though, if used correctly, it will help to smooth the path of life. Being successful is not a guarantee of happiness.
We’ll never know what agonies these unhappy people faced in life, but I firmly believe that God will help those who turn to Him. He may not do it according to our plan, but His plan will be the best in the end. He is my bridge over troubled waters. He can be yours too.
Thought for the day: Success is falling nine times and getting up ten. Jon Bon Jovi
Please send comments to: rosemerrie@att.net or call 865-748-4717. Thank you.
Thanks to Steve Hunley and his helpers at The Knoxville Focus for a fabulous book signing event last week. It was awesome and fully appreciated. Thanks also to everyone who attended this event.