Each morning I began my day with God,
then set out to complete the tasks at hand;
but seldom did my day go as I planned,
for something in my master plan was flawed
and left me feeling like an utter fraud.
And so I sent a message to a friend,
who answered with a gentle reprimand:
“My friend, the answer’s easy,” said her text.
“The thing to do is that which follows next.”Just do the next thing—simple, yet profound.
If only I could put it to the test,
then maybe I would be a lot less stressed.
So patiently the Lord brought me around,
and in my soul new joy came to abound.
I learned to trust in God, who wants my best,
and in His care my soul is fully blessed.
For now, not just the mornings, but all day,
My Lord consumes my thoughts and guides my way.
I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with Mine eye.
Psalm 32:8
A Double Analogue written for Kate Motaung’s Five-Minute Friday: NEXT
Copyright © 2019 Angela Umphers Rueger – All Rights Reserved
Photo taken in New Market, VA, 2014
Scansion: Analogue
- invented by Rena Ferguson Parks, a 20th century poet and educator
- a nonostich in iambic pentameter
- rhyme scheme: abbaabbcc
- can be doubled
The Abundant Heart 
That is such a good thought, Angela: just do the next thing. We can get so paralyzed, trying to figure out what’s the right or perfect step to take so we don’t mess up and get it wrong and make God (or other people) mad at us. But sometimes the answer is right there – just do the task/step at hand and the rest will follow. And God’s so gracious, so that frees us to walk in that grace without worrying about being punished for our mistakes.
Thanks for writing – and for dropping by my place earlier! Great connecting with you here today.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Jeannie. I heard this phrase from Elizabeth Elliot a lot over the years, and it immediately came to mind when I saw the prompt.
It’s been my joy to connect with you today. I love FMF and really enjoy the weeks when I can participate.
LikeLike
Isn’t it wonderful when the Lord not only guides our day – but consumes it as well! Several have referenced this thought (from Elizabeth Elliot) today – one that I had heard about before. But I looked it up – and Elizabeth never fails to encourage and strike a chord. Such wisdom. Thanks for sharing how it impacted you as well.
Hope you have a wonderful and joy-filled Easter!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I couldn’t agree with you more, both about the Lord’s guidance and Elizabeth’s encouragement. Thank you for yours as well.
Have a blessed Easter. He is risen!
LikeLike