Everlasting Ease

I wanted "Fields of Clover"
Or a cushy "Lily Pad";
But God's desire soared over
All the lofty dreams I had.

He knew that I would never
Be a minister of grace
If "Happiness Forever",
Didn't blow up in my face.

His reverie rose higher
Than my wishes dared to fly.
His hopes flared up life's fire
For self-centered wings to die.

Instead of soft surroundings,
He provided tough terrain.
Still, blessings kept abounding
When high humps and bumps brought pain.

He gutted my "Rose Garden",
Yet, He left those thorns which sting.
Heart's sod is not down trodden,
Cause each prickle helps me cling.

I looked for lush and dainty
But I got Love's cramped cocoon.
I'm glad He didn't feed me
With a carnal "Silver Spoon".

I'm sanctified through sadness;
Sorrow makes my spirit strong.
Grief gifts my lips with gladness
When "God's Grace" becomes my song.

So "Happy Ever After"
Isn't always "Easy Street",
It's knowing "Heaven's Laughter"...
Following our Savior's feet.

Jeremiah 29:11
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD,
"plans to prosper you and not to harm you,
plans to give you hope and a future."
(NIV)