“Gumbo at 5:30 – come hungry and crafty – we will make favors for Brittany ‘s shower.”

This was the text message I sent out to several people, including my sister Kay and her daughter Kerri. I thought it was self explanatory. And it was. To everyone but Kay.

And although the menu underwent a slight change, those arriving at my home that evening found snacks, soup, and dessert. When Kay arrived, Kerri was already seated at the table, eager to begin our task. Kay looked a little surprised when I began to explain the steps of our project.

“Look, I’m just here to eat,” she said. “You didn’t say anything about work.”

“I sent everyone the same text. Why did Kerri show up ready to get started, and you just showed up hungry?”

“Kerri likes doing that kind of stuff. I don’t. I stopped reading after the part about the food, and I’m just here to eat.” And she just ate. And talked. And laughed. And watched the rest of us work. And that’s OK. We all enjoyed her company.

I’m a lot like Kay. When I read, I tend to focus on that which meets my immediate need. When I read the Bible, the verses that seem to leap off of the page vary according to my situation.

When concerned about my children, I run to Isaiah 49:25, “I will contend with those who contend with you, and your children I will save.”

If my faith begins to waiver, I return to Mark 9:25, “Everything is possible for him who believes.”

As I pray for someone’s health, the words of Psalm 103 seem to be the only words I see, “Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits – who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases.”

While waiting for direction, I rest at Proverbs 3:5,6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”

Regardless of my circumstances, whenever I turn to God’s Word, I find His wisdom, guidance and answers to meet my need. His Word sometimes convicts, often challenges and always comforts. Isaiah 26:3 records the promise of peace to those who trust in God and fix their thoughts on Him. Kay’s going to love that I included this verse. That is, if she reads this entire column.

Ronny may be reached at rmichel@rtconline.com.