On June 11th, what has now become Arizona’s largest wildfire in history was started. It was human caused, reportedly by a campfire. Around 534,639 acres have burned. The Wallow Fire, as it has been named, is dying down at last. My heart was broken when I read about some of the most beautiful country in our state going up in flames, not to mention the houses and towns threatened. No human deaths occured, which is a miracle. I am happy to say that one of my very favorite towns, Greer has been spared. Go here to check out a great place to stay if you ever find yourself in our State.
Such a devastaing fire, started by one small flame……that’s is what was on my mind when I read this verse from James:
The other morning I illustrated the validity and truth of Scripture with my own actions. I wasn’t planning on it, of course, but I did it all the same. It happened as I pulled into the parking lot at work, where we have recently installed solar panels. The fact that they are a wonderful power source is a side note to what really matters to those of us who leave our cars out there in the baking sun for 12 hours now that it is approaching 108-110 in the shade. Covering. They only provided us with two rows of them, in a virtual sea of spaces, however. To say that these are much sought after spots is an understatement.
So now I leave at 5:10 instead of 5:20.
I had just finished praying as I approached what I thought was an available spot. There was a motorcycle parked there. Immediately I cursed them. Yes, I did. And then I had to pray again.
For forgiveness.
How quickly my heart and my tongue can turn from blessing to cursing, Father, forgive me. Sweet and bitter water out of the same fountain…..
And yet, He is faithful to forgive….once again.
I think of that devastating fire, all the damage that will take so many years to restore. I think of all the destruction that negative words can cause and how maybe someone can never ever be restored, repaired from the hurt that goes so deep. I think of how much good that wonderful words can do. How a face can light up from a simple compliment.
It is humbling…..makes me want to do better.
Lori's Prayer Closet 
so much power in these tongues …
Hi Lori,
It is sad to see such a beautiful part of the state going up in flames. I love that part of Arizona. Very good analogy us used to describe the damage our tongues can do.
God bless,
Ken
It's pretty frustrating to drive up only to find a motorcycle in the spot. It's not the fact that someone got there first, but that it appeared available. It's the death of a dream for that moment. :o) So understandable. What a great attitude of learning!
Yes, and also that they have a special place to park all their own. But maybe that was full, I will give him the benefit of the doubt….I guess 🙂 Have a great weekend! Lori