The Tapestry of our Lives

Many are the plans in a person’s heart,
but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails.
Proverbs 19:21 NIV

If you’ve ever done needlework, weaving or sewing, you know the top side is always the most attractive. 

Source

I came across this poem a number of years ago while going through a box of family photos.  It was handwritten on a piece of paper, the author unknown.  I am still deeply moved by the incredible insight of the author.   

The Tapestry

My life is but a weaving,
 between my Lord and me;
I cannot chose the colors,
He worketh steadily.

Oft times he weaveth sorrow,
 and I, in foolish pride,
Forget he sees the upper
and I the underside.

Not ‘til the loom is silent
 and the shuttles cease to fly,
Shall God unroll the canvas
 and explain the reason why.

The dark threads are as needful
in the Weaver's skillful hands,
as the threads of gold and silver
In the pattern He has planned.

When I think of an actual weaving or tapestry, I know that a lot of precious time and care goes into making it.  It’s not something that can be whipped up in an evening.   The beauty of the finished product is in the various fibers used.  If a tapestry was made of all gold threads, there would be no beauty in it, as it would not form a pattern.

It’s in the combination of colors, threads, fibers, weaves, and strands that the artist chooses to use, that make the finished product beautiful.  Our lives are a tapestry and God is the designer.  He sees the finished product while the work is still in progress.   

God knows and is interested both in the hardest problems we face and the tiniest details that concern us.  He knows how to put everything in place, like a jigsaw puzzle, to make a beautiful picture. 
Corrie Ten Boom

The dark threads are as needful
in the Weaver's skillful hands,
as the threads of gold and silver
In the pattern He has planned.

What are our dark threads?  Illness, death of a loved one, emotional or physical pain, broken relationships, financial stress or any other trial that’s personal to you. 

God is love. 
His will is always best
God is all-knowing. 
His directions are always right
God is all-powerful. 
He can enable you to accomplish His will.

Sometimes you find yourself in difficult or confusing circumstances.  To understand bad or difficult circumstances, God’s perspective is vital.  Never ever determine the truth of a situation by looking at the circumstances.  You cannot know the truth of any circumstance until you have heard from God. 

Henry Blackaby ~ Experiencing God

My times are in Your hand.
  Psalm 31:15a

We may never know while here on this earth why we experienced a certain trial, but for those who trust in the Lord, there will be a day when the top side of our personal tapestry is revealed to us.   It will be so beautiful, it will defy description. 

Only Heaven will reveal the top part of God’s tapestry.
Corrie Ten Boom