Feels Like 13

My "day job" often requires me to work outside. In the winter I will be inside most of the time, but we have been in that middle place between fall and winter, and there is still quite a bit I have to do outside. I have been doing pretty well with preparing as far as clothing is concerned.  Multiple layers, several pairs of gloves, two pairs of socks…most of the time I have been just right or too warm. 

Today was my wake-up call.  

We worked outside today, doing manly things, and it was snowing.  With the wind chill, my phone said the air felt like it was 13 degrees.  It felt like it was well-below zero, and my carefully planned layers amounted to nothing in the face of that wind.  

Temperature is relative (tell that to the North wind), and if you just gear up for it and ignore the weather, most of the time you can get through with little whining. But there comes a point (I believe it is when the temperature feels like 13) when the wind wins and you are reduced to a chattering popsicle.  

I need more layers.
I need better preparation.
Being tough is not enough.

When we made the decision to move to Siouxland, to love this city and its people, we knew it would be hard. I made up mock schedules and planned and prepped my mind and heart for the transition, and I knew it would be difficult.  But the last couple weeks have served as a wake-up call on just what is before us and just how little our tough is.  

We need more layers.
Our tough is not enough.

The last couple weeks I have had several days of cowering, of feeling unwound and overwhelmed and completely out of balance.  My hands, head, and heart have foot completely empty at times.

But today the Scripture reminds me: ...my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.

According to my gifts, talents, abilities?
According to my effort?
According to my preparation?
According to my creativity?
My resources?

According to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus. In Jesus is the preparation, ability, patience, consistency, strength, and resources.  In Christ Jesus.  

May I have a better handle on who handles things. May I sort out what everything is according to.
Also may I get some long underwear ASAP. 
Amen.