Bookends. Their sole purpose is to hold up the books standing in-between them. You can have a bookshelf without bookends, but they won’t stand tall. Most likely they will fall over as mine always do.

Bookends come in all sizes and shapes. They make some really clever ones too, such as these I found on Uncommongoods.com Some make you laugh. Some make you think. And many make you marvel at the creativity used in making them.

I have discovered my need to bookend my days since this pandemic began. There are only two things, necessary things, strong enough to support me through the shifting events of each day. 

First, is my relationship with Jesus. He is my focus at the start of each day. I ask myself,  What does His Word say? What is He saying to me through it? And how does He want me to apply it to my current circumstances? These questions help me frame the start of the day with that which provides strength. It’s amazing how one thought of fear and worry can unravel a whole day making it nothing but a pile of messy emotions.  This is why spending time alone with the Lord is necessary. He is my strong support to start my day.

Then, as the day ends and I lay my head on my pillow, I thank God for His countless blessings to me. I try to be as specific as I can before I fall asleep…

• I’m grateful for the ability to see, hear, smell, feel and taste. What comforts these 5 senses bring to me all throughout the day.
• I’m grateful for my family and pray specifically for them by name. A tradition my grandmother began.
• I’m grateful for my home and the comforts it provides.
• I’m grateful for food on my table to share with those I love.
• I’m grateful for health.

Being aware of my blessings on a daily basis keeps me from grumbling and complaining about the day’s trouble.

Secondly, is my relationship with my husband. He walks with me through all the high peaks and low valleys life brings my way. He gives me a perspective I wouldn’t have left to myself. He is a thinker, a planner and doesn’t make decisions quickly. This used to drive me crazy because I’m the opposite. I love to throw caution to the wind and just do whatever strikes my fancy. But after all these years of marriage, I have grown to love and depend on Tom’s wisdom. I’m not as quick to jump these days. Usually when I do I regret it. There is wisdom in waiting. He is my strong support to help me make wise decisions.

Add to this, our shared faith in God. This makes our bookends even stronger. 

“And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken.”

These are the two bookends that help me stand tall and strong, ready to be used as God chooses. What bookends give you strong support?