He Unfolds a Rose

I use a rose in my doll art logo because it reminded me of the great beauty that God has created. I loved roses. They are very delicate but yet the thorns that protected them are so strong. It reminds me of the strength God has given us to endure pain. As women we bear children and endure a pain that is soon forgotten after that child is born. It reminds me of my struggle to create art. I make mistakes which add frustrations when I try to use a new painting medium or recently a carving knife. A month ago I started learning how to carve a doll in wood. Carving is such a labor intensive craft without the right tools. Still with the right tools there is a learning curve that must be mastered but not without causing pain. Will ever understand how wood reacts to carving knives? How am I going to get a face to develop in block of wood? God works through me to create anything. It will take patience and time to develop this new skill. So I remember the rose. . .it doesn't open by itself God is directing it. He will direct me and guide my hands in the right time. He will lead me to the right tools and how to use them. He led me to a carving group on Yahoo. Many of the artists are very willing to share tips and info. I love how God can open doors at just the right time. I love this poem. I hope anyone who reads this blog will be blessing by its message.

It is only a tiny rosebud,
A flower of God's design,
But I cannot unfold the petals
With these clumsy hands of mine.

The secret of unfolding flowers
Is not known to such as I,
The flower God opens so sweetly,
In my hands would fade and die.

If I cannot unfold a rosebud,
This flower of God's design,
Then how can I have wisdom
To unfold this life of mine?

So I'll trust Him for His leading
Each moment of every day
And I'll look to Him for His guidance
Each step of the pilgrim way.

For the pathway that lies before me
My heavenly Father knows
I'll trust Him to unfold the moments
Just as He unfolds the rose.

~Selma Swanson