When is Enough, Enough?

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

Into the woods we go.

Beyond the forest we trekked through, Lake Erie roared. Leaves scattered across the trail, under an overcast sky. We dodged puddles as we hiked along the North Loop on Kelleys Island. From an opening in the woods, we spotted the alvar, a rare ecosystem along the coast, made of limestone, very thin soil, and scant vegetation.

After we climbed over roots and rocks, we stepped onto the limestone and watched the angry waves tumble in. At first the alvar looked barren. Then I noticed plants and moss growing out of what appeared to be nothing. The environment provided just enough soil and nutrients for plants to grow. I'd read that the northern bog violet grew there in the spring. Even in late October, with the water crashing in, the autumn plants thrived.

I've experienced times in my life when resources were thin like the soil on the alvar. Other times my physical being felt weak or my spiritual life fell short. In all of those times, the Holy Spirit reminded me God is enough. Trust me, I struggled. I didn't just glide through without doubt and fear, but my Lord provided the resources, the strength, and the desire to plant my spiritual roots deeper.

With faith and hope, I believe with all my heart—God is enough. When I fall on my knees and seek his forgiveness—God is enough. When I worry and fret—God is enough. He provides all my needs, if I am willing to ask him and trust him.

Believe God is enough, even in times of doubt and despair. He loves us more than we understand.