The Arboretum

This morning after my nutrition final, I walked to the arboretum, which is perhaps my favorite place on campus. It's always a breath of fresh air and peace when the days get crazy! Just for fun, I found pretty much every shady bench or nook to do part of my quiet time in. It was beautiful, and oh so relaxing. My parent's actually got engaged in the arboretum, which is kinda cool. Here's a few pictures I took on another trip:

Here's what I wrote in my journal this morning as I sat there:
"I am attempting to read my Bible all the way through this calendar year, and as can  be expected, I've gotten way behind. I'm sitting in the arboretum beginning to catch up and I decided I'd finally quit putting off 2 Chronicles, and pick up where I left off. Needless to say, the Lord has reminded me again that every single part of his Word is inspired and precious. Who knew 2 Chronicles could bring tears to my eyes? God is so good. His power, and his provision for his people are incomparable. Let me set the scene. Jehoshaphat was king of Judah and he "set his heart to seek God." (19:3) A great multitude comprised of three people groups came against him in battle, so naturally Jehoshaphat was afraid. he sought the LORD and proclaimed a fast in all of Judah (20:4). I love part of his prayer: "O LORD, God of our fathers, are you not God in heaven? You rule over all the kingdoms of the nations. In your hand are power and might, so that none is able to withstand you." (20:6) Later he prays "We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you." (20:12) I love the brutal honesty, humility, and dependence of that prayer. Look how God answers! "Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed at this great horde, for the battle is not yours but God's... You will not need to fight in this battle. Stand firm, hold your position, and see the salvation of the LORD on your behalf, O Judah and Jerusalem." (20:15&17) When the warriors of Judah got to the battle, the enemy was already lying dead in the field! Wow! I feel like any feeble attempt of mine to elaborate on that would not do it justice. I am blown away by how much God loves his people. If he is able to do this, why do I not trust him? Why do I always want to have my hand of control in everything I do, as if I think I could do better than that? Oh God forgive my stubborn heart."
I just started a new journal. And I am kind of obsessed with it. So I decided to include a picture. It has real leaves on the front with a bamboo spine.

It's hard to tell, but the pages are so cool and grainy. And best of all... NO LINES!

                                      
If you don't already journal, try it! It's an awesome way to process what God is teaching you and to remember his faithfulness. I also love to write my prayers because it keeps me from getting as distracted.