Silver Linings

Recently I was communicating with a friend who's entering a season of intense physical treatment.  I remembered something about the difficult seasons I've walked through.  I certainly don't like them - I wouldn't make a choice to go through them - and I find them very hard.  But there's a "silver lining."  Because I walk through them holding tight to the Lord's hand, there have been precious lessons learned that I wouldn't have learned in any other way.

Maybe it's as we participate in the "fellowship of His sufferings" (Philippians 3:10) that we can draw close to Him in a special way.  The intimacy with Him, the abundant grace He grants us, and the precious encouragement of His Spirit are unique in the time of trials.  I can look back at sweet gifts He's brought into my life in the difficult seasons.  I relish the closeness of His Spirit during those times.  I feel I grew to deeper levels in my walk with Him.  I couldn't make it on my own, so I had to press in and trust Him in fresh ways.

When I face fresh challenges, it's helpful for me to stop and remember all this!  It gives me strength and courage to face the new overwhelming situation.  He waits to help me, strengthen me, and walk with me on the new road.  He is so faithful!

"In the morning, O Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation."  Psalm 5:3

"I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation."  Psalm 13:5

"The Lord your God is with you, He is mighty to save."  Zephaniah 3:17

"I pray that out of His glorious riches He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being."  Ephesians 3:16

"Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need."  Hebrews 4:16

"Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when He has stood the test, He will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him."  James 1:12

"For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way just as we are."  Hebrews 4:15

One trap I've learned to avoid is to think that because I'm serving the Lord and following His voice that I'm somehow immune to trials and suffering.  We live in a fallen world, and there is pain, difficulty, sickness, any number of "hard" things.  We can't avoid them, but we don't face them alone.  The enemy may try to bring condemnation into our hearts because of the trials.  We must stand against that and receive God's grace for each situation.  The trials aren't in any way punishment - they are opportunities for growth and intimacy.

Job is an example of clinging to God in the midst of immense trials.  "Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him."  Job 13:25  He persevered!  "Our afflictions are designed not to break us but to bend us toward God."  - anonymous

Inner Strength

One of the key things I've learned over the last years is how important it is to have a strong "inner walk" with the Lord when trials and hardships come our way.  If we don't have His strong power within, we won't be able to handle the pressures from without.  It's His grace, strength, wisdom, and power that enables us to navigate the hard times.

A saving grace for me was talking to the Lord all day long with whatever I was facing.  It wasn't just my daily quiet time - it was being in communion with Him continually.  I often had to make important decisions all through the day.  I would whisper a prayer and ask Him to lead and guide me.  It was that inner strength that enabled me to handle the pressures and decisions that came my way.  

"I pray that He would grant you...to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man."  Ephesians 3:16

"They strengthened the spirits of the disciples and exhorted them to persevere in the faith, saying, 'It is necessary for us to undergo many hardships to enter the kingdom of God.' "  Acts 14:22

"This is what the Lord says: 'Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.' " Jeremiah 6:16

"You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good."  Genesis 50:20

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."  Jeremiah 29:11

"For nothing is impossible with God."  Luke 1:37

"You are my lamp, O Lord; the Lord turns my darkness into light.  With your help I can advance against a troop; with my God I can scale a wall."  2 Samuel 22:29,30

"Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?  Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?"  Luke 12:25,26

"I have set the Lord always before me.  Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken."  Psalm 16:8

I could go on and on.  So many verses about the Lord meeting us and being with us when we go through the difficulties of life.   "The power of Christ in you is greater than the pressure of troubles around you."  (anonymous)

He IS always, always faithful!!

Watching my Words

I am blessed to live in a beautiful area.  We have flowers, trees, a variety of birds, the ocean, some wildlife - every day I see something that reminds me of God's wonderful creation.  Further inland in South Africa, there's lots of different wildlife.  God created such an awesome variety for us!

I am on a "nature whatsapp group" where people share photos and short video clips of these things.  I so enjoy "seeing" through the eyes of others.  Lately, however, a number of things that have been shared turn out to be done by AI.  They aren't real!!  It's so disappointing, and frustrating.  When there's so much real beauty - it doesn't seem necessary to make something up.

It seems like every day there is something in the news about someone getting in trouble for their speech too. I guess we live in a world now where we have to question what we see and hear.  It's made me go to the Word and look again at God's standards for our speech and actions.  Here are just a few of the guidelines He gave us:

"It is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out of the mouth; this defiles a person."  Matthew 15:11

"Whoever keeps his mouth and his tongue keeps himself out of trouble."  Proverbs 21:33

"Death and life are in the power of the tongue."  Proverbs 18:21

"Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer."  Psalm 19:14

"Whoever guards his mouth preserves his life; he who opens wide his lips comes to ruin."  Proverbs 13:3

"I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned."  Matthew 12:36,37

"When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent."  Proverbs 10:19

I have a new urgency in my heart to watch my words, and be careful of what I share.....making sure it is true and worthy of sharing.  God made His standards clear in the Word.

Give Everything to Him

Our hearts are all impacted by the news of big tragedies - the recent plane crashes, the Ukraine war, the fires in Calif. with so many homes lost, etc.  We "weep with those who weep" and wish we could help.

But the "little" sorrows and trials of everyday life impact us too.  Colds, flu bugs, bills, job worries, lack of sleep, and so many "every day" things can weigh heavy on our hearts too.  Someone was just telling me how worn down she felt by these seemingly small things - in relation to the big things happening in our world.

The one thing that comforts me is that God is big enough to carry all of this - the huge, earth shattering events....and the "small" everyday problems we face.  Our consolation is that we can give everything to Him, and trust Him to be at work in everything.

These things can produce anxiety, even fear, in our hearts.  I was reading in the Psalms of how David, the mighty warrior, faced fear.  His response was "when I am afraid, I will trust in you."  (Psalm 56:3)  He knew what to do with his fears.  He gave them to the Lord, and trusted Him.  We can follow his example.

When we're anxious and concerned, it does no good to blame ourselves for that.  We're human, and we have human emotions.  It's best to bring these things to the Lord and allow Him to carry them for us.

"The Lord Himself goes before you, and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.  Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."  Deuteronomy 31:8

"There is no fear in love.  But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment."  1 John 4:18

"Have I not commanded you?  Be strong and courageous.  Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."  Joshua 1:9

"Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff they comfort me."  Psalm 23:4

"The Lord is my light and my salvation - whom shall I fear?  The Lord is the stronghold of my life - of whom shall I be afraid?"  Psalm 27:1

"I sought the Lord, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears.  Those who look to Him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame."  Psalm 34:4-8

"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.  Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging."  Psalm 46:1-3

I could go on and on.  The Lord knew we would have nervousness, anxiety, and fear so He spoke to it again and again in the Word.  When unexpected or hard things come my way, I admit my heart sometimes gets anxious or fearful.  I have to stop, and remind myself of all the verses that say God will help me with whatever I'm facing.  He is so gracious, good, and faithful!!  Always!!

Grief is Personal

My friend of 40+ years, Rita Pretorius, went to be with Jesus a few days ago.  She was a sweet support to me during the years that Floyd was sick.  Her prayers, encouragement, and recruiting others to pray meant so much to me.  She even came to visit me during that time.  She's a "queen of hospitality" in YWAM and will be greatly missed.  I'm glad she's at peace after the last few months of suffering.

I've realized that I'm in a season of life, probably because of my being older, that many friends and relatives are going to be with Jesus.  My heart feels the loss with each one.  I've been learning a lot about grief, and thought I'd share just a few of the things I've learned.

-  Grief is personal.  My grief is not like someone else's.  It's unique to me.  I shouldn't compare my grief to how someone else processes their grief.  I just need to walk out my own journey.

-  There's no set timetable for grief.  It usually takes time - and that's okay.  Sometimes I think it's over, and then it hits again.  Often times a special day or a memory will bring the grief alive in my heart once more.

-  Grief isn't bad.  It isn't something we need to rush through.  Grieving is part of the healing we need.  If we allow our hearts to grieve, it becomes a balm to the loss.

-  There's no right or wrong way to grieve.  It's nothing to be ashamed of.  Grieving doesn't mean we're weak.  It's normal.

There are countless articles and books written about grief.  I've read quite a few.  But the important thing for me has been that I just need to "do grief" my own personal way.....walking with God along the path.  His comfort, His presence, and His counsel has gotten me through.

"Surely He has borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows."  Isaiah 53:4

"He heals the brokenhearted and bandages their wounds."  Psalm 147:3

"Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and He will strengthen your heart."  Psalm 27:14

"The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit."  Psalm 34:18

"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted."  Matthew 5:4

We don't grieve like those "who have no hope."  It'll be a grand reunion someday when we join together before the throne and worship the Lord!

Unfailing Trust

A friend recently sent me this quote:

"When James (1:2-4) tells us to "count it all joy when you face trials of many kinds," he is not telling us we need to be happy about it.  He is telling us to trust in the end result.  He is telling us that beneath the sorrow or the suffering or the pain is always a Hand that is working in us to make us more and more into the people He desires us to be.  This joy holds an unfailing trust in His unfailing love; trust that regardless of the situation or the circumstances, He is always up to something good."  from Journey to the Cross by Jim Branch

When I read this, so many memories came rushing back to me.  I thought of all the times when Floyd was in the hospital and how I told the Lord that I knew He would use the situation for good - that He was working in our lives to help us grow more like Him.

I thought of all the times in the last 10+ years of cancer treatment when I spoke out my trust to the Lord.....asking Him to use it for good in my life.

Even now in recent trials, I've spoken out my trust in the Lord - asking Him to draw me closer to Him and use the trials for good.  Through the years in all these things, God has given me grace to "count it all joy" and to trust in the end result.  No, I'm not happy about all the things that have happened, but I have been able to find His "joy" in the midst of them.  Only God can help us do that.

I've seen some "good" things that He's brought through these trials, but I know God is doing so much more than I could ask or think.  Only eternity will reveal all of God's plans.  I know it's so important for me to keep the perspective of His unfailing love in working for good in our lives when I face each new trial.  Trusting God is vital!

"Have I not commanded thee?  Be strong and of good courage, be not afraid neither be dismayed for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."  Joshua 1:9

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.  In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths."  Proverbs 3:5,6

"Who among you fears the Lord and obeys His servant?  If you are walking in darkness, without a ray of light, trust in the Lord and rely on your God."  Isaiah 50:10

"Cast all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you."  1 Peter 5:7

"He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.  I will say to the Lord, 'My refuge and my fortress, my God in whom I trust.' " Psalm 91:1,2

The Word is full of verses that assure us God is with us in our trials....and is at work in them!  When we struggle, we can share our heart with Him - being honest of how hard it is.  Things may not make sense to us, but we can be assured God understands.  We live by faith, not by sight - and the only way to make it through is to hold firmly to His loving hand.  

When we face trials, it doesn't mean we're out of God's will.  We live in a fallen world, and will face difficulties.  But God will never leave us or forsake us.  He is so faithful!  I can testify to His goodness.

New Year's Resolutions

I've never been one to make "new year's resolutions."  But as we have entered this new year, I've felt the Lord reminding me of His promises.  They are firm and sure year after year - unchanging - always true - always available.  They are God's "resolutions" to us.  In the NEW year, the OLD promises are what we can hold onto!  Here are just a few of my favorites:

"Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."  Matthew 28:20  One version says "until the end of the world."

"God is faithful.  He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand.  When you are tempted, He will show you a way out so that you can endure."  1 Corinthians 10:13  He never allows more to come our way than we can handle and endure with His grace and help.

"We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose."  Romans 8:28

"But He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me."  2 Corinthians 12:9

"The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."  Lamentations 3:22,23

"The joy of the Lord is my strength."  Nehemiah 8:10

"I know the plans I have for you," says the Lord.  "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope."  Jeremiah 29:11

"The Lord is good and His love endures forever; His faithfulness continues through ALL generations."  Psalm 100:5

"The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble.  He cares for those who trust in Him."  Nahum 1:7

"Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed."  Isaiah 54:10  Through wildfires, earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, whatever comes our way - He is our sure steady helper!

The list of promises is ENDLESS!!!  I could go on and on.  Whenever I'm facing something that is too much for me - taking a few minutes to sit and meditate on God's incredible promises gives me fresh courage to persevere.  He is so very faithful!

God is Good

After my sister passed away recently, a friend sent me a lovely card and message.  One thing she said stood out to me - "God is good. He is for us and with us.  Period!"

That says it all.  That's all we need to know as we enter a new year.  He's been with us every minute of every day all through our lives - and He'll continue to be with us.  He, more than anyone else, is for us too!

I face a few challenges in the days ahead.  It was so timely to be reminded of God's care.

"He will cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness will be your shield and rampart."  Psalm 91:4

Ready for Some Wins!

While it seems unbelievable that we're already in a new year, when I look back at 2024 I see what a hard year it was.  I felt like I was on a constant roller coaster, and there were so many "low" spots.  Somehow in my mind I thought that after Floyd passed away things would get easier.  But that hasn't been the case.  The battles have just been different.

A friend in Holland had a hard year as well.  Her son gave her a special wish for the new year:

May the wars you fought in 2024

Be the wins you celebrate in 2025.

I loved that!  I'm wishing and praying that as well.  I'm ready for some "wins" - not only from this past year, but from the last 10 years.  My friend prayed for a year of rest, peace, and wins.  Bring it on, Lord!

I've heard from others who have faced illness and have lost family members and friends.  May God meet each of us where we are and with what our needs are.  He is faithful!

"Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.  They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."  Isaiah 40:31

"I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."  Jeremiah 29:11

"Your beginnings will seem humble, so prosperous will your future be."  Job 8:7

"For you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its rays.  And you will go out and frolic like well-fed calves."  Malachi 4:2 

"To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under the sun."  Ecclesiastes 3:1

The Word has wonderful promises for us as we enter this new year.  I'm holding on to them, and trusting the Lord to bring them to pass.  He has good things in store for us!

Our Inheritance is Peace

After Floyd passed away, it took about 2 years to settle everything legally.  He didn't have a lot, so it seemed pretty straight forward.  But there were a lot of hoops to jump through.  The whole process got me thinking a lot about wills - leaving things to people, deciding what to do with things we have, etc.

One day I realized that Jesus left a will for us.  He "willed" us His peace.  "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you."  John 14:27

In a world that seems filled with constant turmoil.....in the problems in our lives.....in the grief of losing loved ones - what a precious treasure it is to have the peace that Jesus left for us.  I'm so grateful for His peace.

In the joy of this December when we celebrate His coming - I'm thankful for the peace He brought to us.  I pray that each one reading this will receive it afresh in their life too. 

A Valuable Gift

I recently saw this quote - "Prayer is the most valuable gift you can give someone."  My heart said a hearty amen to that!  It's so true.  I am continually filled with gratitude for the prayers of so many dear ones around the world that have generously and faithfully prayed for me over the past years of trials.  They are truly a precious gift to me.  

I keep thinking that the Christmas season is a perfect time for miracles, so I'm praying for a few!

"Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need."  Hebrews 4:16

I have certainly needed grace in my recent time of need.  God has been faithfully with me.  I'm so grateful to Him.

Through His Gates with Praise

Psalm 100:4-5 (TPT) says:

“You can pass through his open gates with the password of praise. Come right into his presence with thanksgiving. Come bring your thank offering to him and affectionately bless his beautiful name!  For the Lord is always good and ready to receive you. He’s so loving that it will amaze you - so kind that it will astound you! And he is famous for his faithfulness toward all. Everyone knows our God can be trusted, for he keeps his promises to every generation!”

Some friends shared these verses in their newsletter.  I have been pondering them, and have been so blessed.  We enter into His presence with praise and thanksgiving.  He is always there - always good - always faithful - always trustworthy - and He keeps His promises.  Wow!  That's worth more that all the money in the world.  My heart has been so full as I've meditated on this.  It has encouraged me during these difficult days.  I couldn't ask for anything more than the power of what those verses say about my wonderful God!!

I had a precious gift this week.  It had been a challenging day.  Pain, nausea, weakness.  I was teetering on the brink of sadness.....when it started raining.....with some sun shining as well.  RIGHT OUTSIDE MY BEDROOM WINDOW was a gorgeous, big, vibrant rainbow!!!  It lasted a very long time....went away....and came back again for a long time.  It was such a sweet gift to my heart.  I lay in bed and soaked it in.  Rainbows were so special to me during the years that Floyd was in the hospital.  It seemed that one came along just when I needed it.  But I hadn't seen one in a long time.  God knew what my heart needed.  :)

I'm so grateful for all the prayers that are helping to carry me during this time.  Persistent prayer is like walking repeatedly around Jericho.  It seems as if nothing is happening, but the foundations are crumbling.  So thankful that there are so many that keep praying for those walls to crumble.

Contentment in All Things

I think I'm in a new/fresh season of learning to be content.

Learning to be content is not always easy.  There are lots of good things in life, but there's also hard things, difficult things, frustrating things, things we wish would change.  We have to daily call on God's grace to be content with whatever He allows to come our way.  And we have to respond in a Godly way.  If we're truly content, we will learn to accept the bitter things with the sweet - the hard things with the good.

"I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.  I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty.  I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation...I can do all things through Him who gives me strength."  Philippians 4:11-13

Being content has to do with our attitude, not our circumstances.  We all go through difficult, painful things in life.  How we respond makes a big difference.  I think it also has to do with learning to rest in the Lord - rather than carrying everything ourselves.  And it certainly has to do with trust - knowing that what God has allowed to come into our lives is for our good.....even if we can't see it.

I know I've shared this before, but this quote from Amy Carmichael always comes to mind when I think of my attitude in difficult circumstances.  "The eternal essence of a thing is not in the thing itself, but in one's reaction to it.  The distressing situation will pass, but one'e reaction toward it will leave a moral and spiritual deposit in his character that is eternal."  I want my reactions to leave a positive, Godly deposit in my life!  I daily ask God to help me.

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."  Matthew 11:28

"My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth.  He will not let your foot slip - He who watches over you will not slumber."  Psalm 121:2,3

"Though the fig tree should not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines, the produce of the olive fail and the fields yield no food, the flock be cut off from the fold and there be no herd in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord; I will take joy in the God of my salvation.  God, the Lord, is my strength; He makes my feet like the deer's; He makes me tread on my high places."  Habakkuk 3:17-19

I'm  so grateful that whatever my circumstances, I can take joy in the Lord and find contentment in Him.  I'm still on the never-ending journey of learning to be content, and He is my help and strength!

Saddle Up Anyway

In his youth, Floyd liked John Wayne movies.  Some of you probably don't even know who or what those are. :)  He was a "cowboy" actor - always the hero in the movie setting.  It was a long time ago!  In fact, one summer he even mowed John Wayne's lawn.  

John Wayne once said: "Courage is being scared to death but saddling up anyway."  I sometimes feel like that.  There are times when something happens and it's unbelievably hard to get in the saddle again!  I'm nervous or worried, but I choose to give my worries to the Lord and trust Him.  Thankfully He gives me grace to do that.  It's not always easy.  It's part of persevering too - which has been a major aspect of my journey in recent years.

When I was young, I was thrown off a horse one time.  I made myself get back on.....but I never enjoyed riding after that.  Whatever life throws at us, we have to keep going.  We have to keep holding onto the Lord's hand, and take the next steps in front of us....even if it is difficult.

"We pray that you'll have the strength to stick it out over the long haul - not the grim strength of gritting your teeth but the glory-strength God gives.  It is strength that endures the unendurable and spills over into joy."  Colossians 1:11 MSG

"The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid.  What can man do to me?"  Hebrews 13:6

"The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.  Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."  Deuteronomy 31:8

"For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, 'Do not fear; I will help you.' "  Isaiah 41:13

"Saddling up again" sometimes just means taking one step at a time to get through the day, or get through a situation.  It's not conquering the hard thing or the situation you're facing - it's just hanging in there and persevering.  God has helped me do that over and over again.  I couldn't have made it without His grace and strength.

Remember When...

When I'm facing new challenges - which seems to happen fairly often - I find it helpful to remember, "remember when."  When I think of how God has met me, how He's answered prayers in the past - it gives me fresh courage to face these things now and in the future.

I remember when He healed me of rheumatic fever.

I remember when, as a 16 year old, He provided in so many ways for me to go on a Summer of Service YWAM outreach to Samoa.

I remember when God answered prayer and turned my dad's heart to Himself.  We were in Amsterdam at the time, and God used a letter I wrote to my dad in Texas to help turn his heart.  It was so special that I was a part of that happening.

I remember multiple times God protected our children when we lived in the red light district in Amsterdam.  And how he protected Floyd when his life was threatened several times because of our ministry there.

I remember how clearly He led us to move to South Africa, and provided for us - in a season when we never dreamed we'd be pioneering again so late in life.

I remember how I'm still alive with ovarian cancer contrary to what doctors expected.

Oh my - I remember soooo many things!  God has been so faithful to me and our family through the years.  I can see why God exhorted His people in the Bible to remember His great acts to them from times past.  It builds faith, and helps release fresh courage.

"The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; and He knows those who trust in Him."  Nahum 1:7

"My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from Him.  He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will never be shaken."  Psalm 62:1,2

"When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they will not overflow you."  Isaiah 43:2

"Why are you in despair, O my soul?  And why have you become disturbed within me?  Hope in God, for I shall again praise Him for the help of His presence."  Psalm 42:5

And of course - I remember so very many times God met me and helped me during the 5+ years Floyd was in the hospital.  I couldn't have survived all that without God's daily help.  He has been so good and so faithful.  It's wonderful to remember.

Trust is a Way of Life

In recent weeks when the Lord was speaking to me about not worrying - He also spoke to me about trust.  I'm so very familiar with that topic because I've had to trust the Lord so much in recent years.  I couldn't have made it without trusting the Lord and holding His hand on the difficult journey. 

But trust isn't a one-time thing.  It's daily, maybe even hourly, as we go through life's trials.  Trust is a way of life.  It's telling the Lord we trust Him when things don't go right - when prayers aren't answered in the way we asked - when we have questions - when we're confused, discouraged even.  Trust trumps everything!

Trust is the solid foundation in our walk with the Lord.  If we don't fully, 100% trust the Lord - we're in big trouble.  But with trust, the pieces of the puzzle (the pieces of our life) come together.

"Commit everything you do to the Lord.  Trust Him, and He will help you."  Psalm 37:5

"I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation."  Psalm 13:5

"He will have no fear of bad news; his heart is steadfast, trusting in the Lord."  Psalm 112:7

"Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you.  Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul."  Psalm 143:8

"It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in man.  It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in princes."  Psalm 118:8,9 

"As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."  Isaiah 55:9

"I have set the Lord always before me.  Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken."  Psalm 16:8

Whatever it is I'm facing, if I speak out my trust in the Lord everything seems to fall into place.  He is truly my help and refuge.  How good He is!

Strengthened by Trials

I feel like I've been on a roller coaster of trials for the last 10 years - both big ones and little ones. James 1:2,3 says:  "Consider it all joy...when you encounter various trials, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance."  Sadly, I think I'm a long ways from finding "joy" when a trial comes my way.  I usually have to go through a process.  And for some of the really hard ones - I come to a place of peace eventually, but it's sometimes hard to find the joy the verse speaks of.

I do believe that the trials and testings we go through strengthen our faith, and help us to persevere.  The key is keeping in close contact with the Lord.  Letting Him sustain and carry us.....especially when trials go on a long time and we have no idea when they'll end.                       

I want to endure and persevere, but I sure can't do it on my own.  I look back now, and I don't know how I survived the 5+ years of Floyd being in the hospital - all while I was battling cancer.  God worked overtime in carrying me through all that. 

When a new trial comes along, I feel weak - especially as I grow older.  I feel like I can't take any more.  I feel discouraged.  I feel overwhelmed.  And I know I have to quickly turn to the Lord.  He can be strong in my weakness.  He can encourage my heart, and give me extra grace.  He can help put things into perspective so that I'm not overwhelmed.  He is my everything in the midst of the trial.

On the flip side of all these trials - there are so many beautiful lessons I've learned.  There are things I probably couldn't have learned in any other way  except by going through a hard trial.  The lessons are precious.  I'm grateful for each and every one. They are God's compensations in going through the hard times.  I treasure them.  God has been good to me.

 " 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.'  Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me."  2 Corinthians 12:9

"The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."  Lamentations 3:22,23

"Let us approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need."  Hebrews 4:16

"And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus."  Philippians 4:19

I know there are a few bumps in the road ahead of me.  I'm trusting in God's goodness and faithfulness to get me over them.  He's helped me in the past - I know He'll help me in the future.  He is completely trustworthy!

Lighting my Candle

I haven't read "Hinds Feet on High Places" in a long time.  But someone wrote me about it recently.  The Christian embraced the companions the Great Shepherd gave her on her journey - sorrow and suffering.  As she did so, they became joy and peace.

In the midst of big and little struggles, I try to remember that example.  I do often sense the joy and peace that the Lord gives when going through difficulties.  I'm comforted that I'm not alone.  He is with me - even carrying me at times.  I could not make it without the Lord's help.  

I have leaned into His help in a recent difficult situation.  Through no fault on my side, it has been a big mess.  I have been calm, polite, and have tried to respond in the right way......even though I'm frustrated with how it's been handled.  I even sensed the Lord's strength when I had to stand at a desk for a couple hours yesterday working with the consultant.  These "little trials" of life can certainly be challenging!!

"He makes my feet like hinds' feet (able to stand firmly and tread safely on paths of testing and trouble); He sets me (securely) upon my high places."  Psalm 18:33 AMP

"For in You I can charge an army, and with my God I can scale a wall."  Psalm 18:29

"You broaden the path beneath me so that my ankles do not give way."  Psalm 18:36

"Like it or not, we either add to the darkness of indifference and out-and-out evil which surrounds us or we light a candle to see by."  Madeline L'Engle

I'm trying my best to light a candle in the midst of a frustrating situation. :) 

Immanuel - God with Me

During the week I've had a number of frustrating and stressful things come up.  I've also had something happen that was a big disappointment for me.  In the over all scheme of things, it wasn't earth shattering - but it was important to me and I was very disappointed.  I had to pray over and over giving it to the Lord so that it didn't stay heavy in my heart.  I'm still disappointed, but the heaviness is gone.

As all these things happened, I was meditating on Immanuel - God with me.  I know He's an ever-present help in trouble......and I've had these troubles!!  I've taken refuge under His wings.  I've spoken out that He is my Rock, my Refuge, my Redeemer.  He is my Helper, my source of Wisdom, my Guide, and my Provider.  I've spoken out all the ways I need Him.   And I'm confidently trusting that He'll help me as I work all these things out.  I'm choosing not to imagine what all might happen - I am trying to focus on who the Lord is in my midst to help me.

"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.  Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea."  Psalm 46:1,2

"He will cover you with His pinions, and under His wings shall you trust and find refuge; His truth and His faithfulness are a shield and a buckler."  Psalm 91:4

"Be strong and courageous.  Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you."  Deuteronomy 31:6

"The Lord is near to all who call on Him."  Psalm 145:18

But He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.'  Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest upon me."  2 Corinthians 12:9

"Give thanks in all circumstances."  1 Thessalonians 5:18

I know that thankfulness and worship in the MIDST of difficulties is a powerful thing.  I'm trying to be thankful with the bumps of this week.  And I'm proclaiming who God is in my midst to help me.  I'm not in this alone - He is with me.  Immanuel!

The Crown of Life

Along with millions around the world, I have been watching some of the Olympics the last couple weeks.

Swimming and diving, gymnastics, and track are some of my favorites.  I've never been very athletic - I hated phys ed class in school - so I love watching these champions of sports.  Triumphs and letdowns.  Hopes and disappointments.  Success and failures.  Cheers and tears.  It's all been there.  It's been amazing to watch!

I've thought of the thousands of hours of training that have gone into the performances of the athletes.  They have sacrificed lots of things in order to accomplish reaching the top levels of their sports.  It's required great discipline, and lots of hard work.  Their success has not come easily.

As I've watched all this and reflected on it, it has reminded me a lot of our Christian walk.  Many of the same principles apply, and we face some of the same ups and downs.  We have good days and bad days.  We are victorious, and we sin and fail.  We step out in faith, and we have some disappointments.  We have some tears along the way.  Our walk with the Lord requires discipline, and even sacrifice at times.  

But, unlike the Olympics, we ALL receive a reward - an eternity with our loving Savior.  Greater than any medal around our neck, any trophy, any certificate - we will hear the Lord say "well done, good and faithful servant."  What a glorious reward that will be!  We have much to look forward to.

"Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love Him."  James 1:12

"Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven."  Matthew 5:12

"His master said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant.  You have been faithful over little; I will set you over much.  Enter into the joy of your master.' "  Matthew 25:21

"I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus."  Philippians 3:14

I am challenged afresh to learn and grow and walk in God's ways.  My race is still ongoing, and I want to finish well.  I can't do it alone, so I'm immensely grateful that the Lord walks beside me day by day.  He is so faithful!