THE LORD'S TEST

[Susan Adair-Shankle]

I woke up this morning and knew that today,
The sun would not be shining
and the clouds would be gray.

As I stepped outside,
Rain fell upon my head.
My car wouldn't start
so I walked to school instead.

I forgot all of my assignments
I failed all of my tests.
I dropped my head in disgust
and asked the Lord for one request.

'Lord, why is it that
things won't go my way?'
He gently replied,
'Dear child it is because
you didn't thank me yesterday.

I woke you up and enabled
you to see the sun again.
I gave you shelter,
protected your family, and even let
you make a new friend.

I blessed you far
greater than I ever had before.
But you were too busy
to thank me once more.

You didn't feel sick
because I maintained your health.
You had money in your pocket
because I maintained your wealth.

You had shoes on your feet
and clothes to wear, too.
You had plenty of food to eat,
and what did you do?

You ignored me and went
about your tasks.
But when you wanted something
you never hesitated to ask.

I was there when you needed me
and that wasn't too long ago.
But when things started going your way,
it was me you did not know.

As if that weren't enough,
I provided your favorite luxuries.
This was something I didn't have
to do- they weren't even necessities.

And when it was time to get on your
knees and show your gratitude,
You decided that after such a
fulfilling day, you weren't in the mood.

So I decided to
give you just a little test.
To show you how it would feel
to stop being blessed.'

I began to realize what
the Lord was saying.
And when I got home, I fell
to my knees and started praying.

He said, 'My child, you have
learned and you know I do forgive.
But remember to remember this day
as long as you shall live.

I love filling your life with joy,
and your pain I'll alleviate it.
But just a simple thank you
would show how much you
appreciate it.'