Our Lifeguard Walks on Water

My thoughts and prayers continue to be with those who have suffered in the Turkey/Syria earthquake.  I can't begin to imagine the horror of it all.  Some stories have begun to come out, however, that are very encouraging.  Both  journalists and aid workers have said that many of those rescued reported having a "man in white" come to them with food and water.  Some said that he lifted the concrete off of them to protect them.  I worshipped and thanked the Lord when I read these reports. 

It made me think of all the instances when I knew the Lord was with me during these recent difficult years - especially when Floyd was in the hospital.  I never saw a "man in white," but I felt the Lord's presence with me time and time again.  There were a couple times when I felt His loving arms around me - supporting me, caring for me, strengthening me.  I couldn't have made it on my own.

I'll never forget the day early on when Floyd was in ICU and was going to have surgery.  The doctor said he probably wouldn't survive the surgery, but without it he would surely die.  I told the surgeon I was praying for a miracle.  Hours later - much longer than the surgery was supposed to be - the surgeon came out and told our family.  "You might have had your miracle!  When we went in to operate, the things that had been viewed on the scan and MRI were no longer there.  There was nothing for us to do."  They called in the radiologist and asked him if he could explain what had happened.  They thought he had messed up in taking the scans. 

That was just one of so many experiences of seeing God's hand at work.  On days when I'm asking for fresh answers to prayer, I find it helpful to remember what He's done in the past.  Hearing of the "man in white" from the earthquake rescues is also a wonderful reminder than God is with us in our difficulties and intervenes in impossible ways.  We're never alone!

"Friends, when life gets really difficult, don't jump to the conclusion that God isn't on the job.  Instead, be glad that you are in the thick of what Christ experienced.  This is a spiritual refining process, with glory just around the corner."  1 Peter 4:12,13  The Message

Honestly, I have a hard time thinking of how my suffering relates to the suffering that Christ endured.  But I do know that I have a choice of how to go through my suffering - moaning, groaning and complaining......or keeping my eyes on Him and worshipping Him.  My choice makes all the difference! 

"What then shall we say to these things?  If God is for us, who can be against us?"  Romans 8:31

"My soul clings to you; your right hand upholds me."  Psalm 63:8 

"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 

"We have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.  We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down but not destroyed."  2 Corinthians 4:7-9

Not crushed, not in despair, not abandoned, not destroyed.  Yes, we go through hard times - trials, sickness, weakness, suffering.....but it's not a defeat.  God is always, always, always with us to help us through those times.  It's good to call to mind how He's helped us in the past!!

The last few days the words enduring and perseverance have been in my thoughts almost constantly.  I looked up their definitions.  Enduring is to last over a long period of time.  Perseverance is to continue in spite of difficulty or delay.  I guess I can relate to both!!  It's easy in a time of prayer or worship to commit to persevering - but the day-to-day reality of it is something very different. 

I'm coming up to 9 years of battling cancer.  And 20 months after I began that journey, Floyd was struck down and began his long silent journey.  I remember standing by his bed in ICU on day 3 praying with him just before the doctor was going to do a procedure to slow his heart that was beating much too fast.  We committed our lives and the future into God's hands.

The doctor told me that the treatment might affect Floyd in an unusual way for some hours.  He was right!  Floyd started talking about things that made no sense.  April, a dear ICU nurse, was with me at Floyd's bed while he explained that our 50th wedding anniversary was the next year.  To celebrate, we were going on a round-the-world trip to 50 countries!  That sounded like an absolute nightmare to me, but Floyd was very excited and continued to talk about it.  That was my last conversation with him.  I guess he was a visionary as long as he had a voice to speak.

A few hours later his heart stopped.  He was then in a coma - and then silent, never to speak again.  I then began a journey of enduring, persevering......through each day, sometimes through just the next hour.  It was intense as his organs began to shut down, and various things attacked his body.  I remember reading this quote - "When you feel like you're drowning in life, don't worry.  Your lifeguard walks on water."  I clung to that lifeguard minute by minute.  And have continued to do so as I cared for Floyd and continued my cancer battle.  There were definitely moments when I felt like I was drowning, but Jesus held my hand and kept me afloat.

I've never been a quitter.  When I start something, I always want to finish it - be it something big or small.  But enduring and persevering through these last years has seemed impossible at times.  But God!!  His Word has strengthened and encouraged me time and time again!  Oh how precious is the Word of God!

"Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love Him."  James 1:12

"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer."  Romans 12:12

"We glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.  And hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us."  Romans 3:3-5

"Since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles.  And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus."  Hebrews 12:1,2

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.  Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."  James1:2-4 

"You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised."  Hebrews 10:36

"If we endure, we will also reign with Him."  2 Timothy 2:12

"We count as blessed those who have persevered.  You have heard of Job's perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about.  The Lord is full of compassion and mercy."  James 5:11 

"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."  Galatians 6:9

"Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail.  They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.  I said to myself, 'the Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for Him.' "  Lamentations 3:22-24

"Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you.  Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways."  Proverbs 4:25,26 

"Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you.  I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you."  Isaiah 46:4

I've shared lots of scriptures because these are ones that have helped me endure and persevere.  There are many others!  There is strength to be found in reading His word - clinging to it - as we walk through a difficult time.  His word and His presence with us, holding our right hand, will get us through!

I read somewhere - "Perseverance is not a long race; it is many short races one after the other."  I have faced countless short races, and I continue to do so.  God's grace, strength, love, wisdom, and help has gotten me through.  He has helped me to endure and persevere - and He will help you too!!!

Counting My Blessings

When we go through a difficult time (of which I've had quite a few in recent years), it's easy to become discouraged - even despairing.  The trials feel heavy, and we may not be able to see the light at the end of the tunnel.  The hard time, the suffering, the weights of what we're experiencing can be utterly overwhelming.

One important lesson I've learned is that I can choose victory - even while I'm crying out to the Lord for it.  I may not feel it.  The situation may not have changed.   The weights are still there.  But I can declare victory in Jesus name.  When I do that, something is released in me that gives me extra grace to walk through the trial.  And the Lord's strength and help begins to flow.  He has been so faithful to help me, to bring victory to me time and time again in the hard times.  I couldn't have made it otherwise.

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

"You give me your shield of victory, and your right hand sustains me; you stoop down to make me great."  Psalm 18:35

"Behold, God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid; for the Lord God is my strength and song, and He has become my salvation."  Isaiah 12:2

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

"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

I am so grateful for how the Lord has been with me through each trial, each difficult thing.  I truly don't know how people make it without the Lord.  I'm glad I don't have to try that.  He is right by my side each day.

I had one day in particular that was difficult this week.  Thankfully it wasn't to do with my physical health!!  It had to do with something I was trying to get done that was challenging.  In the midst of it as I was asking the Lord to help me, He reminded me of two things.

The first was to "count my blessings."  When I took a few minutes to do that, it was amazing how my whole outlook shifted from the problem to all the good things in my day, in my life.  It brought perspective!  From big things to little things, I saw all the wonderful blessings in my life!!

The second thing was a reminder that "laughter is the best medicine."  Smiling, laughing brings joy and helps lift the burdens we are carrying.  I recently came across a video that makes me laugh every time I watch it.  In the video a little baby girl interacts with her father in tearing up their electricity bill - while she giggles continually.  I don't think anyone can watch it without at least smiling, and probably laughing.  I love it!  Something so simple - but so full of joy.  I share the link below.

So, needless to say, after counting my blessings and laughing.....the burden of what I was dealing with was much lighter!  I still had to plow my way through it, but it wasn't as overwhelming.  I love how God reminded me of these truths. 

"The Lord your God is with you, He is mighty to save.  He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing."  Zephaniah 13:5,6

"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."  1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 

"With your help I can advance against a troop; with my God I can scale a wall."  Psalm 18:29

"Let all that I am praise the Lord; may I never forget the good things He does for me."  Psalm 103:2 NLT

"Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things.  Philippians 4:8

I LOVE that last verse.  It covers it all.  When we think on those things, it puts anything else into the right perspective.  I have so very much to be thankful for!!!

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Don't Forget the Blessings

Last week I was feeling overwhelmed by some tasks I needed to accomplish.  With my limited strength, I never seem to get as much done as I'd like.  I was talking to the Lord about it and He reminded me of a story that encouraged me.

A little boy with a small shovel was trying to clear some deep snow in front of his house.  A man came by and asked how a little boy with such a small shovel could accomplish such as big task.  The little boy replied with great confidence, "Little by little."  And he kept working.

The Lord spoke that word to my heart.  He'll help me "little by little."  I just need to keep working and keep trusting in the Lord's help.  It's a simple word - and an obvious one in many ways - but it was just what I needed.

"Little by little I will drive them out from before you, until you have increased, and you inherit the land."  Exodus 23:30

I can imagine how the Israelites felt.  They were in their promised land, but they faced many challenges - many enemies they needed to conquer, many things they needed to do.  God gave them the same encouragement and direction that He gave me - "little by little." 

"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

"Commit your way to the Lord, trust also in Him, and He shall bring it to pass."  Psalm 37:5 

"With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God."  Mark 10:27

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.....do not be troubled and do not be afraid."  John 14:27

Little by little with His grace, strength, and peace - we can make it through anything! 

This week I've had a good week.  What joy it brings me to say that!!!  I'm feeling good, and my strength is steadily returning.  I've even been able to do one of the tasks on my list - little by little, until it was done.  That brings me joy too!  I'm sure all this is an answer to prayer and I’m so grateful!

A friend of mine told me something special that she did.  She has a friend who is battling stage 4 cancer.  I'm sure it's been hard for her.  To encourage her, my friend printed and cut out over a month's worth of encouraging scriptures - ones that I've shared in the updates.  She put them all in a "blessings" jar.  Her friend can pull out one each day to be reminded of God's goodness, faithfulness, and love for her.  I loved that idea!

In the midst of difficulty, it's easy to see the hard things - but we sometimes forget the blessings that God has for us.  During Floyd's illness, I kept a file of songs, scriptures, and thoughts that encouraged me.  I would go to that file often and let the Lord minister those things to me.  I guess it was my "blessings file."  It was such a help to me.

God is with us each step of the way when we go through trials, sickness, and hard times.  I'm so grateful I'm not alone.

"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

"I sought the Lord, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears."  Psalm 34:4 

"How priceless is your unfailing love!  Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of your wings."  Psalm 36:7 

"I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in His word I put my hope."  Psalm 130:5

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.  I do not give to you as the world gives.  Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."  John 14:27 

In the midst of a hard time, the enemy wants us to focus on the difficulty.  He wants us to be weighed down and discouraged.  But the Lord wants us to keep our eyes on Him, and feast on the promises in His word.  When we do that, He will bear our burdens and bring encouragement to our hearts.  He protects us from falling into the despair that the enemy has for us.  I am so, so grateful for the Lord's loving care in each trial I've walked through the last 9 years.  How good God is!  A loving, faithful Father!

His Presence in the Tunnel

Last week I was at the hospital having a test done.  Because of our load shedding (loss of electricity), everything took longer than normal.  I ended up being at the hospital much longer than anticipated.  I thought I had prepared safety wise - wearing a mask and sanitizing my hands often......but I managed to pick up a "bug."  I woke up horribly ill last Friday morning.  It hit like a bolt of lightening.

While I was sick, I was reminded of a quote from Corrie ten Boom.  "When a train goes through a tunnel and it gets dark, you don't throw away the ticket and jump off.  You sit still and trust the engineer."

The unexpected sickness felt like going through a dark tunnel - BUT I sensed the Lord's presence all around me.  He is so faithful!

"Here's what I've learned through it all:  Don't give up; don't be impatient; be entwined as one with the Lord.  Be brave and courageous, and never lose hope.  Yes, keep on waiting - for He will never disappoint you."  Psalm 27:14 TPT

I can't believe we're already in the 3rd month of this new year.  The days are flying by.  It seems like every day there is a new need, a new crisis, a new disaster.  You think there can't be any more tragedies - and then a new one comes.

The Lord has been reminding me of how important it is to keep my eyes on Him.  If I look around me or look around the world at all that is happening, I can easily get overwhelmed and discouraged.  My heart breaks for the suffering in Ukraine......and for the earthquake victims in Turkey and Syria. There has been great suffering in southeast Africa from a cyclone that hit.  Every direction you look around the world, there is suffering.

And there is suffering for many of us in our individual lives - loss of a loved one, financial worries, sickness.  We absolutely have to keep our focus on the Lord.  He doesn't intend for us to carry the burdens.  Recently some things happened that were unsettling to me.  They were distracting me.  I realized I was losing the peace that the Lord has so graciously given me through the years of cancer and Floyd's illness.

I had to give those unsettling things to the Lord.  In a world of so much uncertainty and suffering, I must constantly keep looking to Jesus.  As I gave each thing to Him, my peace returned.  What a sweet gift it is!

Corrie ten Boom said:  "If you look at the world, you'll be distressed.  If you look within, you'll be depressed.  But if you look at Christ, you'll be at rest."  Amen!!

Adversities in life will always be with us - but God is also with us, and He is greater than any adversity we face.  This little guideline is a good one to keep in mind…

Trust in His timing.

Rely on His promises.

Wait for His answers.

Believe in His miracles.

Rejoice in His goodness.

Relax in His presence. 

"Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus."  Hebrews 12:1,2

"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."  Isaiah 41:10

"Come to me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls."  Matthew 11:28,29

"And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."  Philippians 4:7

That blessed peace that only He can give.  How grateful I am for that!

Opportunities for Grace

I'm always amazed at all the different ways God speaks to me.....from so many sources.....in unusual and creative ways.  I was reading a book last week, a novel, and out of nowhere in the story plot came something so powerful.  I have been thinking about it for days.  In the story a woman is going through a nightmare experience.  A young priest comes to counsel her.

"We're all given terrible trials sometimes, things that we think will break our spirit and kill us, and they make us stronger in the end.  They seem like the cruelest blows, but in a funny way they're like compliments from God.  I know that must sound crazy to you, but that's what they are.  If He didn't love you and believe in you, He wouldn't give you challenges like this.  They're opportunities for grace.  You'll be stronger from this.  I know it.  This is God's way of telling you that He loves you and believes in you.  It's a compliment from Him to you."  *** (quoted from "Ransom" by Danielle Steel)

Most likely you, like me, and like the woman in the book would say "no thank you."  I really don't need or want a compliment like that!  And yet, there's so much truth there.  In essence the young priest is saying that God trusts us when we go through these hard times.  With His help and grace, He knows we'll make it through - and we'll learn and grow through the experience.

I couldn't have made it through the last 8 1/2 years without God's goodness, faithfulness, and grace.  I haven't always liked what I've gone through, but I've seen God at work in amazing ways in the midst of the difficulty.  There have been many "opportunities for grace."  And His grace has been sufficient.

I don't particularly like the season I'm going through right now, but I'm trying to receive His grace and learn the lessons He has for me.  I'm very aware that He is walking with me, holding my right hand, and guiding me.  And I'm watching for ways, even unusual ones, that He wants to speak to me.

"If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross daily and follow me."  Luke 9:23

"For just as the sufferings of Christ are ours in abundance, so also our comfort is abundant through Christ."  2 Corinthians 1:5

"That I may know Him...and the fellowship of His sufferings."  Philippians 3:10

"Rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when His glory is revealed."  1 Peter 4:13

"Our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all."  2 Corinthians 4:17

"Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love Him."  James 1:12

I trust God to help me through whatever "compliment" He wants to bring into my life

I'm sure that most of you, perhaps all, have been hearing about the revival that is taking place at Asbury University in Kentucky.  It is a wonderful spiritual awakening that is being led by the Spirit - no one person, no group - just God moving in hearts and lives.

I have been listening to testimonies of some of the students.  It's awesome to hear how God is touching lives, bringing repentance, ministering healing, giving vision and direction.....each story is different, but it's all pointing to Jesus.  It's all directed in worship.

This wasn't planned.  It broke out spontaneously.  And it's spreading to other campuses.  I'm praying that it will spread out of the schools and into churches, neighborhoods, businesses - truly come like a wave across the nation.  And across Europe, across Africa, across Asia.  May this continue and spread.  More Lord!!  My heart is hungry for a move of His Spirit. 

I suggest we join in prayer with what is happening - asking the Lord to help it grow and spread.  We may not be there, but we can join our hearts with how God is moving.  He can pour out His Spirit right where we are.

"Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you?"  Psalm 85:6

"Then we will not turn away from you; revive us, and we will call on your name."  Psalm 80:18

"If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land."  2 Chronicles 7:14

Our world is a mess.  The earth itself is groaning with all the unusual weather events.  We need God to break in.  We need revival.  We need a move of His Spirit.  I may be old, but I'm joining my heart with what He's doing among the students.  I'm excited to see what God is going to do.

At Rest in Him

Last Friday I wrote about worry.  Well, I'm certainly getting a fresh opportunity to respond the right way in a worrying situation!  After a consult with my oncologist this week, my mind and emotions were bombarded with anxiety.  I sat down and tried to separate every anxious thought and bring it to the Lord.  I tried to push the anxiety to the side and concentrate on God's goodness and faithfulness.  I spoke out that He is my refuge!  He is always with me and He holds my right hand.

I admit that this was somewhat of a battle.  Worry/anxiety kept poking its head up.  I would come to a place of peace and then before long I needed to claim that peace all over again.  I find it helpful when a worry pops up to immediately speak out a promise to counteract the worry from the Word.  And to keep speaking it out until I feel it's "solid" in my heart.

I have some challenges in the days ahead, so I'm going to need to keep standing on His promises! 

"Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand.  You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory....But as for me, it is good to be near God.  I have made the Sovereign Lord my refuge; I will tell of all your deeds."  Psalm 73:23, 24, 28

"The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms."  Deuteronomy 33:27

"Jesus looked at them and said, 'With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.' " Matthew 19:26

"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

I love that last verse.  Jesus understands!!!  When I cry out to Him about what I'm going through, I can just picture Him saying - "It's okay.  I understand.  I'll help you through this.  You're not alone."  What comfort and strength that gives me. 

I continued all through the week to take my anxieties to the Lord - over and over.  As I went to bed one night, I gave the burden of them to the Lord again.

I had a wonderfully, deep night of sleep.  Sleep is so healing and restorative.  When I woke the next morning, the burden was gone!!  Completely!  No anxiety.  I felt encapsulated in peace.  The contrast to the previous day was like night and day.  It was incredible!  I'm so grateful for God taking that burden from my heart, and washing over me with His spirit of peace.

Also as I walked through the week, I was reminded by the Lord of how important it is to "rest in Him."  That can be a lot easier said than done, but it is possible.  I kept speaking out my love, my faith, my confidence, my hope, my trust in the Lord.  The more I spoke it out - the stronger it became in my heart and in my emotions.  I could take a deep breath and rest in His loving arms.  I knew He was carrying me.  On hard days, I missed Floyd not being here to help me......but the Lord reminded me that He's my husband in Floyd's absence.  That's a powerful thought, and I sensed the Lord meeting me in special ways.  I experienced a deep "rest."

"Like an eagle that stirs up its nest, that hovers over its young, He spread His wings and caught them, He carried them on His pinions."  Deuteronomy 32:11

"Behold, God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid; for the Lord God is my strength and song, and He has become my salvation."  Isaiah 12:2

"Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God, I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."  Isaiah 41:10

"How priceless is your unfailing love!  Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of your wings."  Psalm 36:7

"Trust in Him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge."  Psalm 62:8

I poured out my heart to Him - over and over this week.  He met me!  He has been my refuge.  He is so good, so faithful, so present when we need Him.  I feel "at rest" in Him.

Worry is a Powerful Thing

I've been feeling "poorly" (as we used to say when I was growing up in Texas).  I've been too weak to get much of anything done.  And then I tend to worry about all the things I'm not getting done.

Worry is a powerful thing.  We tend to worry about the next week, the next month, even the next year.  God wants us to focus on just one day at a time.  Worry means we're carrying a burden God never intended for us to bear.  We're to cast our burdens onto His big shoulders.

I am trying my best to do that.  Some days I succeed.  Some days I don't.  Being weak actually helps as I don't have the energy to worry. 

"Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things.  Sufficient for the day is its own trouble."  Matthew 6:34

In the midst of being weak, feeling poorly, I've sensed the Lord's presence with me.  I'm so thankful that in the midst of the hard times, He doesn't disappear.  In fact, if anything, He makes His presence more clear and obvious because He wants us to know we're not alone.  That means so much to me!  I'm so grateful for His faithfulness.

The Gift of Laughter

The Bible talks about times to celebrate.  Jesus Himself took time to celebrate.  Celebration is part of our Christian walk.  So I take great joy in thinking about a particular celebration taking place this year.  It's the 50 year anniversary of YWAM Holland/the Netherlands.  50 years ago it all began!

I remember well arriving from Afghanistan to live on the two house boats called The Ark with a toddler in hand and a baby on the way.  The rocking of the boats made me nauseous in my pregnancy, and I was afraid our toddler would fall in the canal.  I wondered what in the world we had gotten ourselves into! 

YWAM had purchased the houseboats for an outreach previous to our arrival.  We were asked to come and help establish a permanent outreach to the hippies, drug addicts, and young people in the city.  It seemed like a great idea when we prayed about it in Afghanistan, but the reality of what we were facing made me wonder if we had truly heard from the Lord!

I prayed and told the Lord something had to change - He had to help me.  He did!  From that day on all my nausea disappeared......and our toddler daughter never fell into the canal.  Our puppy that we had gotten for her made it into the canal twice, but we were able to rescue him.  We spent the next 18 years in Holland.  There were many challenges and many answers to prayer.  God was so good and so faithful!

Now, 50 years later, YWAM has many ministries throughout Amsterdam and the country.  Many prayers have been answered.  Many miracles have taken place.  And it's time to celebrate God's goodness and faithfulness.  Anyone and everyone is invited to help celebrate.  There will be special things happening throughout the year, but the main celebration for an alumni week will be May 15-19.  I will put the link to register at the bottom of this post.

"Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving, let us shout joyfully to Him with psalms." Psalm 95:2

"The Lord has done great things for us; we are glad." Psalm 126:3

"Now this day will be a memorial to you, and you shall celebrate it as a feast to the Lord." Exodus 12:14

I can't believe that we're at the end of the first month of this new year.  The days are flying by!  One of the things I've been thinking about is with the new year come new beginnings.  I get excited about that!

I've been reminded of something recently.  I firmly believe that laughter is a potent medicine!  The last few weeks as I battled a tummy bug and the after effects of severe weakness - I haven't been very happy.  I certainly haven't been laughing, or even smiling.  I've been sad, I guess, because I've felt so awful.

When I was reminded of the "medicinal" effects of laughter, I made a conscious effort to smile and laugh.  It truly helped!  I'm still struggling with weakness, but the heaviness of it all has lifted.  It's a new beginning of joy for me!!  

I've known this principle so well, and seen it in action - but had forgotten. Many years ago our daughter was very sick for over 6 years.  We thought of the truth of laughter being a good medicine.  We looked for funny movies to watch and light-hearted, fun books to read.  It was amazing how much it helped.

Laughter has good physical effects too.  It reduces stress.  It increases the good cholesterol.  It decreases inflammation in our arteries, and it reduces anxiety.  Laughter helps fight viruses and bacteria.  It boosts the immune system.  There are whole lists of how it helps us physically.

If you know someone who's sick - send them a fun card, a joke, or a humorous story.  Hopefully it will bring a smile to help them.  :) 

"He will once again fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy."  Job 8:21

"A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones."  Proverbs 17:22

"Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with shouts of joy; then they said among the nations, 'The Lord has done great things for them.' "  Psalm 126:2

"All the days of the afflicted are evil, but the cheerful of heart has a continual feast."  Proverbs 15:15

"A time to weep, and a time to laugh."  Ecclesiastes 3:4

Laughter brings joy.  Joy opens the door to worship.  And worship always ministers to our hearts and our bodies.  Laughter is a gift from the Lord.  Have a good laugh today - enjoy some guilt-free goodness from the Lord!

For details about YWAM celebrations click here

The Power of Encouragement

This past week I have been sick and it has made me very weak and lacking in energy. While I've been resting and recovering, I received several messages of encouragement.  They meant so much to me, and ministered to my heart.  It reminded me of how important encouragement is.  I've always tried to be an encourager because I've seen how powerful it is.  It doesn't need to be fancy - just a few simple words of love and encouragement!

Thinking about all this, I had an idea.  What if everyone reading this chose someone in their "circle" and sent them a message of love and encouragement?!  How powerful that would be!  Many people would be blessed and ministered to like I was.  Shall we do that?  I'll started it off right before I posted this!

"Therefore encourage one another and build one another up."  1 Thessalonians 5:11

"Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear."  Ephesians 4:29

"Therefore comfort one another with these words."  1 Thessalonians 4:18

"Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds...encouraging one another."  Hebrews 10:24, 25

"May God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other."  Romans 15:5 

"Encourage one another daily."  Hebrews 3:13 

And the strangely wonderful thing about encouraging others is that we are blessed too!!  Let's start a tsunami wave of encouragement!

The person I sent a message to reminded me of something.  Encouragement produces hope, and we need hope to survive.  "Without hope the people perish."  When we're going through a hard time - physically, emotionally, financially, in any way - it's easy to lose hope.  The thing we're dealing with may seem endless and hopeless.

But encouragement releases fresh hope!  Let's keep the wave of encouragement going.....like the waves of the sea.....unending!

"There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off."  Proverbs 23:18

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."  Romans 15:13

"Hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us."  Romans 5:5

Hope is a gift straight from the heart of God!  It endures when we go through hard times.  It never dies, even though it may seem dim during those hard times.  When I'm weak physically, I've learned that I need to ask God to rekindle hope in my heart for better days.  And the encouragement we receive from one another helps to release that hope!

Our God is so good and faithful!  He is our ultimate encourager, and He protects the hope in our hearts from dying.

Prayer Carries Us Along

I recently saw a video clip of a family of elephants crossing a small river.  There was a very young elephant among them, and it was struggling to cross.  It  kept being swept away by the rapidly moving current.  The mother elephant was right with the baby trying to help it along.  Every time she seemed to make progress, the strong current of the river defeated her.

Then the most wonderful thing happened.  Most of the elephants had already crossed the river when they realized what was happening with the baby.  They all turned around and came back to help.  One particularly large elephant came to help the mother.  Between them they managed to protect the baby with their big legs and push it along to the other side. 

I watched the video several times.  What struck me was how they looked out for each other.  Even though most of them had made it across to safety, they didn't hesitate to turn around and get back in the river to help the mother and baby in need. 

I had the thought that this is what so many people are to me.  I'm like that baby elephant.  When I'm "floundering" in the river I can call out and ask for prayer.  I'm so grateful for that!  I know I can call for help whenever I need it.  Time and time again dear ones have rallied and prayed for me.  I’m so thankful!!!  

When I ask for prayer in my weakness I very often get so many lovely messages of support and prayer.  This is how it should be for all of us in the Body of Christ.  My situation is just one small example.  Through Floyd's 5+ years of illness I sensed the prayer support from so many faithful ones.  I'm so grateful.  I haven't felt alone because I've known people were praying for me/us all around the world.

"Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ."  Galatians 6:2 

"Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed.  The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working."  James 5:16 

"Therefore lift your drooping hands and strengthen your weak knees."  Hebrews 12:12

"With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord's people."  Ephesians 6:18 

"Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you.  We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of His will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives."  Colossians 1:9 

"Is any among you afflicted?  Let him pray.  Is any merry?  Let him sing psalms."  James 5:13

I could never have made it through the raging rivers the last few years on my own - even the recent days.  Prayer has truly carried me along.  I'm so grateful.

Burdens into Blessings

A very happy new year to you!  I pray you will be abundantly blessed in 2023.  May the sorrows of the past year be turned into joy in this new year.

As I start the new year, the verse below has come to my attention.  I'm praying it - and standing on the promise it proclaims.

"The Lord will guide you always; He will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame.  You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail."  Isaiah 58:11

Thanking the Lord in advance that He will "strengthen my frame."  He has faithfully done that these past years.

I don't make new year's resolutions, but I do try to be sensitive to the Lord's voice if He is wanting to say something to me for the year ahead.  I've sensed a theme in my daily quiet times.  I read this quote from Sarah Young:  "A thankful attitude opens windows of heaven through which spiritual blessings fall freely."  I love the visual imagery of that - windows flying open as we lift up praise and thankfulness......and blessings flowing out like a river......cascading down upon us.

Being encouraged to be thankful is by no means a new thought to me.  It was a "tool" God put into my hands these last 8 years while battling cancer and caring for Floyd in his illness.  Time and time again the Lord spoke to me that worship and thankfulness would be a lifeline of strength and power to get me through all the hard things.  I clung to that lifeline, and purposed in my heart every single day to be thankful - for even the smallest details in my life.  The more thankful I was, the more joy and strength I had.  It was a wonderful gift! 

I'm feeling challenged to make a fresh commitment to thankfulness.  Many of the things I'm facing are new and different, but the same principle applies.  One thing that we are having is load shedding - where the electricity goes off in 2 1/2 hour blocks anywhere from 1 to 4 times a day.  It's frustrating, and it's hard to plan your day as the load shedding times change frequently.  I confess that my normal response is irritation.  I feel I'm to look for things to be thankful for rather than being irritated.  I'm going to work on that!

Learning to be thankful in whatever comes our way changes everything!  I remember times of standing by Floyd's bed with tears flowing while I thanked the Lord for His goodness and faithfulness.  Comfort came as I thanked and worshipped the Lord.

There were times during my chemo treatments that I was so weak and my mouth so full of sores that I couldn't even speak out my thankfulness - so I thought it.  I remember feeling the Lord so close, and His encouragement was so tangible.  I felt fresh strength to keep going in the battle.

I'm convinced, and my experiences of recent years have taught me that there is always, always ALWAYS something to be thankful for.  We just need to still our hearts and listen to the Spirit reminding us!

"Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His name."  Psalm 100:4

"In everything give thanks."  1 Thessalonians 5:18 

"Let the peace of God rule in your hearts...and be thankful."  Colossians 3:15

"Oh give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; for His steadfast love endures forever!"  1 Chronicles 16:34

"This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it."  Psalm 118:24 

"His praise shall continually be in my mouth."  Psalm 34:1

There is an abundance of verses about being thankful.  Clearly it was what was on God's heart for us!  Praising God turns our trials and burdens into blessings.  Only God could have organized that!

P.S.  As I was reflecting on having a heart of thankfulness, I received the following from Slavic Ministries quoting a woman named Maia in Ukraine:

"Kyiv is a city that may have no electricity but always has pistachio latte because of power generators busily buzzing in front of coffee shops.

Kyiv is a city that may have no electricity and water supply for days, but its residents are clean and well-groomed because they leave bedroom lights on at night to wake up and take a shower as soon as the power is back.

Kyiv is a city that may have no electricity, water, or heat for a few days, but the girls would always have their nails done. Because they want to feel beautiful and because the manicurists have portable battery-powered lamps.

Kyiv is a city that may have no electricity, no water, no heat, or no cell phone service, but it always has fresh bread. And there's plenty of food at the store. And you can pay with your card. And there are garbage trucks picking up garbage. There is snowplowing machinery working during a snowfall. Even though the traffic lights might not work, there seem to be fewer traffic accidents than usual.

One day, the history books will tell about a nation that not only had its warriors defeat the barbarians but also had its civilians manage to remain civilized in the artificial barbaric conditions brought upon them. They managed to maintain their usual civilized lifestyle as much as possible. I don't know how. It's a miracle."

I can't help but think that there are many in Kyiv who have learned to be thankful in difficulty, very great difficulty.

His Unfailing Promises

I hope you had a lovely Christmas Day.  This year was more tender for me than last year.  I'm not sure why.  So many memories went floating through my mind, and all of them reminded me of Floyd.  I'm grateful for all the Christmases we had together.

My personal theme this year was Emmanuel - God with us.  I am so, so thankful for the truth of that.  While I missed Floyd, I knew God was right by my side continually.  His sweet presence carried me through.  Thank you, Lord!  In tender moments, I rest in the sweet promises from the Word.

"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

"For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord."  Romans 8:38,39

"Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.  When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.  For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior."  Isaiah 43:1-3 

"Be strong and courageous.  Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you.  He will not leave you or forsake you."  Deuteronomy 31:6 

"Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."  Isaiah 41:10

When I'm concerned about my health; when I miss Floyd; when I wish I could be with family; when I feel weak; whenever I face any difficulty - I stand on the wonderful, strong promises of God.  They are unfailing!!!  They bring comfort and strength.  God knew what we would need and provided the words of comfort that strengthen us.  How awesome and faithful He is!

It's hard to believe that a brand new year is upon us.  2022 has flown by!  There have been joys and sorrows, good days and hard days, answers to prayers and prayers still being lifted up, provision and need, peace and anxious moments - it's definitely been a year of mixtures. 

And now we're starting all over again with a blank slate.  I wonder what this new year will hold.  There's never a dull moment in walking with the Lord!  I'm praying for miracles, for suddenlys, and for God to move in wonderful ways.

I've been watching the new episodes of The Chosen season 3.  There's a scene in the 2nd episode that has touched me deeply.  Jesus has just told the disciples that He is sending them out 2x2 to minister in His name, healing the sick, and casting out demons.

Little James comes to Jesus to clarify this - wondering how he can heal people when he himself has not been healed of his lameness.  Jesus asks if he wants to be healed, and he says yes, of course.  Jesus tells him it's possible to heal him, but He hasn't because He trusts him.  He wants him to praise God in spite of his lameness.  Jesus explains that Little James has true strength because of his weakness.

As you might imagine, Little James struggles with the concept of being patient with his lameness, his suffering.  Jesus tells him that he will spend all of eternity with no suffering.  He quotes from Job - "the Lord gives and the Lord takes away, blessed be the name of the Lord."

I've watched this scene a number of times because I relate to Little James.  I know it's "possible" for Jesus to heal - both me and many others.  But I'm still living with cancer.  I want to fulfill His purposes in my life in spite of the cancer!  I know His strength is made powerful in my weakness.  I trust God to help me live that out.

In the new year ahead, I'm asking God to give me fresh grace for my journey.  I know His mercies are new every morning.  I know the joy of the Lord is my strength for whatever I face.  I look to Him and trust Him to help me day by day.

"My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever."  Psalm 73:26

"Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all you who hope in the Lord."  Psalm 31:24

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

"God is my strength and power, and He makes my way perfect."  2 Samuel 22:33

"The Spirit helps us in our weakness."  Romans 8:26

"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble."  Psalm 46:1

The Word is full of promises of God helping us in our weakness, sickness, and time of need.  I stand upon those promises in the new year ahead.  

Tante Corrie ten Boom said - "You can never learn that Christ is all you need, until Christ is all you have."  I'm so grateful we have Christ in the year ahead!

We Can't Be Passive

My heart is aligned to love and trust the Lord.  I know I'm in His hands, and that He is watching over me.  I talk to Him all the time, and feel His closeness. 

So it's surprising to me when something happens physically that is concerning - that my first response is to be anxious.  I guess it's human nature, but I would love it to be otherwise.  I've just had that happen.  I had to rein in my thoughts and emotions and bring them to the Lord.  He wonderfully restored me to a place of peace.   

This fresh experience reminded me of how important it is to control our thoughts.  They can so easily run away from us if we're not careful.  I find it important to bring them to the Lord continually.  Meditating on His goodness and speaking out promises from the Word is a big help.  Standing against the lies of the enemy is crucial.  We can't be passive. 

"You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because He trusts in you."  Isaiah 26:3

"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things."  Philippians 4:8

"Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things."  Colossians 3:2

"We take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ."  2 Corinthians 10:5

"For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he."  Proverbs 23:7

Our thoughts are powerful.  They shape who were are, even who we will become.  They influence our physical well-being.  They impact our emotions.  The Bible makes it clear how important our thoughts are.  That's why we need to continually bring them to the Lord.  We need to counteract lies with truth.  I'm still learning how to do this!

I received a "gift" this week that has so blessed me.  I want to tell you about it because I think it's a gift to all of us who pray for miracles!  I had a check-up with my oncologist this week.  She told me she is very puzzled.  Two years ago when I had the big surgery and spent weeks in the hospital, she had explained to me that there were 2 problems that they couldn't fix.  Over time, the expectation was that those problems would cause even bigger problems and complications.  The outlook was grim.

When she examined me this week, she found the problems were gone!  She couldn't explain it.  She said there's no way that could happen.  She kept saying she was puzzled, and couldn't figure it out.  I told her that "maybe it was an answer to all the prayers people have prayed for me."  She said "maybe so, maybe so."

I came home rejoicing!  I still have cancer and an un-operable tumor, but this "miracle" gave me renewed courage to pray for more healing miracles.  According to my doctor, something like this doesn't just happen.  This has been a wonderful, special, encouraging Christmas gift!!! 

"He fulfills the desires of those who fear Him; He hears their cry and saves them."  Psalm 145:19

I'm rejoicing this week in Christ's birth - Emmanuel, God with us, coming to earth!  My heart is full of worship for this wonderful gift to mankind.  In spite of our sin, our rebellion, and our weakness God sent His Son to save us.  Thank you Jesus for coming.

"Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel (which means, God with us)."  Matthew 1:23 

I hope you have a wonderful, Merry Christmas!  I pray your heart will be full of worship for Emmanuel.  May you know afresh that He's with you!!

Trouble is Transportation

These past weeks I've had some "weak" days.  I never know when they'll turn up.  I wake up to the day, and have no energy.  The next day I might wake up to lots of energy.  There's no rhyme or reason to it.  I just have to go with what the day gives me.  On a recent weak day, I came across a quote.  "Trouble is transportation - a bad thing can take you to a good place."  

I sat and pondered that for a while.  It's so very true.  My "troubles" have time and time again taken me to a good place - a place of closeness and intimacy with the Lord as I call upon Him for His help.  "When I'm weak, He is strong."  I couldn't make it without His help.  He carries me through the weakness.  Staying close to Him is indeed a "good place."  I'm grateful that I'm not alone in my weakness.

"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."  2 Corinthians 12:9

"He gives strength to the weary, and to him who lacks might He increases power."  Isaiah 40:29

"I was with you in weakness."  1 Corinthians 2:3

"My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever."  Psalm 73:26

I can do all this through Him who gives me strength."  Philippians 4:13

My "troubles" have led me to His care.  It's a good place to be! 

Our Emmanuel

This week we had "Giving Tuesday."  I'm not sure how it got that designation, or who thought up the idea.  But I like it!  Maybe after Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping someone thought it would be nice to do some giving.  :)

I've always loved to give.  My mother told me I've always been like that.  I would go through my cupboards and give away toys, hair accessories, simple jewelry and clothes.  I so enjoyed giving to my nieces and my neighborhood friends.  I admire my mother's ability to let me do that......but she herself was such an example of giving.  She gave through her food, and in spite of her limited budget, she always had something to put in the offering plate at church.  She was an incredible giver!

When Floyd and I got married, we had to talk a lot about this because, of course, I wanted to keep giving.  We didn't have much money to give, but I still wanted to give from my "things" that I had.  I so admire Floyd.....instead of fighting me on my desire to give, he decided to join me.  That began a lifetime of giving for us.  We didn't have much, but we always gave.

Two memories come to mind.  When we were newly married, we were at a staff gathering and an offering was taken to send one of our workers to Pakistan.  The Lord spoke clearly to both of us to empty our pockets and wallets and give "everything" we had.  That everything wasn't much - I'd be surprised if it was even $25.....but we did it.  It was a wonderful journey of faith to see how God, in turn, met our needs in the days ahead.

Another time we were traveling and speaking in churches.  We had spoken at a church in Ohio.  During the service, an offering was taken for a missionary.  Again we felt prompted to give our all, little though it was.  After church we went and sat in our car - a YWAM vehicle that we were using for our travels.  The petrol tank was almost empty.  We had no where to stay that night, and we hadn't eaten dinner.  So - we sat in the car and prayed.  We decided with some creative maneuvering we could sleep in the car.  

As we were starting to get things arranged, a car drove up to the driver's window.  A man introduced himself.  He had been at the service that night, and was touched by the sermon Floyd gave.  He was at home, readying himself for bed, when the Lord spoke to him to go back to the church and find us and give us a gift.  He was sure we would be gone, but he obeyed - and gave us $100.  That was a fortune to us!!  We got something to eat, put petrol in the car, and found an inexpensive motel to stay for the night.  And there was some left over to help us as we went to the next place we were speaking.

I have so many of these testimonies tucked away in my heart - some special ones from even before I married Floyd.  These testimonies have created a foundation of trust in my heart.  They showed me that I can give as the Lord leads, and He will always take care of me/us.  He took care of us and the houseful of hippies in Afghanistan when we often didn't have money for the next meal to feed everyone.  God has been a wonderful provider.....and He loves to give too!!

I can't think about the Lord without thinking of His love and generosity.  Through these last years when things were so hard, the Lord gave to me continually.  He gave love, comfort, strength, grace, courage, protection, healing, wisdom, and so much more.  He provided for our needs over and over again.  I can hear in my mind my mother saying so many times - "you can't out-give the Lord."  There is not a truer statement.

As I thought about giving Tuesday this week I feel so grateful that the Lord has allowed me to be a giver - regardless of what I had.  Usually it wasn't much, but I loved giving.  It's truly one of my favorite things in life. 

"Freely you have received; freely give."  Matthew 10:8 

"A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed."  Proverbs 11:25

"Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give - for God loves a cheerful giver."  2 Corinthians 9:7

"Give, and it will be given to  you.  A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap.  For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."  Luke 6:38

I can hardly believe that the year is almost over.  It seemed to fly by - quicker than normal.  It was a year of contrasts.  Joy and sorrow.  Trials and triumphs.  Healing and sickness.  Smiles and tears.  Peace and nervousness.  Abundance and need.  It reminded me of the book of Ecclesiastes - a time for everything.

The month ahead is all about celebrating the birth of Jesus.  I love this month!  I'm so grateful He came, and I rejoice in the fact that He is our Emmanuel - God with us.  I wouldn't survive a minute without Him being with me.

When I am going through a rough time, my favorite thing to do is to take a few minutes and speak out what Jesus is to me.  He is my Refuge.  My Rock.  My Fortress.  My strong Tower that I run to.  My Strength.  My Healer.  My Provider.  My Comfort.  My Encourager.  My Companion.  My sufficient Grace.  My Joy.  My Protector.  My Hope. My Counselor.  My Courage.  I could go on and on.  He is my Everything!

When I take time to speak out all that Emmanuel is to me, it puts things in perspective.  It balances things out.  When I don't do that, I can easily get overwhelmed with the problems and forget that Emmanuel is with me.

I'm so grateful for His help and presence - day and night, 24/7, in whatever weather we're having, during times of load shedding.  I can call on Him with whatever need I have.  It is such a comfort to know He's with me.  I'm not alone.

"O Lord, you have searched me and you know me.  You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar."  Psalm 139:1,2

"As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him; for He knows how we are formed, he remembers that we are dust."  Psalm 103:13,14

"I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in His word I put my hope.  My soul waits for the Lord more than watchmen wait for the morning."  Psalm 130:5,6

"The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped.  My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to Him in song."  Psalm 28:7

"When I am afraid,  I will trust in you."  Psalm 56:3

"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

God never promised to keep us from all of life's storms and problems.  BUT He has promised to go with us through them.  So grateful that He is WITH us and helps us when we call on Him!

He is a wonderful, giving God!

Kindness is Contagious

There's something missing in our world.  It's not completely gone, thankfully, but it is disappearing at an alarming rate.  It's kindness.  There are still lovely examples of it - and, I have to say, that I'm surrounded by it from family, friends, and neighbors.  I couldn't have survived without the sweet kindness of those around me.  But not a day goes by that I don't read/hear stories of a lack of kindness.  

It often shows up in name calling, mocking, bullying, and slandering.  It's becoming so widespread that it is leading to an increase in suicides - especially among children and young adults.  It's heart-breaking!   It's become so common place.  There doesn't seem to be any shame in it.

Not too many years ago there was a movement for "random acts of kindness."  You would hear daily examples of it - both large and small.  It was so encouraging.  I think we need to start doing that again.

There are amazing benefits to kindness.  It lowers blood pressure, reduces pain, brings longer life, and produces happiness.  It can also lower stress.  In studies it has been shown that caring for others and being kind in various ways greatly reduces depression.  It's a win-win situation for the giver and the receiver.  It can boost health and happiness in ways no medicine can.  Another study showed that engaging in acts of kindness for as little as 3 days produced increased joy and well being in the giver.

It doesn't have to be "great" things.  It can be as simple as opening a door for someone.  Paying someone a compliment.  Leaving a thank you note for a mailman.  Letting a car in in traffic.  Over tipping a delivery person.  Sending a note of encouragement to someone.  The possibilities are endless!!!  And I think that once we set our hearts towards looking for ways to spread kindness, the Holy Spirit will show and guide us in specific ways.

It doesn't cost anything.  We don't have to be rich. It often involves very little effort on our part.  Anyone - young and old - can participate. All we need to do is look for ways to be kind.  And I think it's contagious.  Those we've blessed will probably bless others.  It'll spread.  For every situation where I read/hear of someone being mocked, slandered, or called an ugly name I try to think of a way to be kind to someone.  It's a small effort, but if we all do that it'll have a great effect. 

"Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude."  1 Corinthians 13:4

"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."  Ephesians 4:32

"Put on then, as God's chosen ones......kindness." Colossians 3:12,13

"She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue."  Proverbs 31:26

"So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone."  Galatians 6:10 

"The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control."  Galatians 5:22,23 

"Love one another with brotherly affection.  Outdo one another in showing honor."  Romans 12:10

"So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them."  Matthew 7:12

"Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind.  Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing."  1 Peter 3:8,9 

I could go on and on.  The Bible is packed with verses about being kind.  I'm sure, like me, you have examples of being on the receiving end of kindness.  It's not completely gone, but we need a fresh revival of kindness in our world.  I hope we can lead out in it.   

As I've been writing this update, I was flipping through a magazine and read this statement. 
"Never underestimate the power of a kind gesture - it can change the world."  Amen to that! 

I also found out that Sunday, Nov. 13 was World Kindness Day.  I had no idea.  I'm sorry to have missed it, but we can make our own day!  Any day is a good time to be kind.

Yesterday in honor of American Thanksgiving, I found myself thanking the Lord for things all day long.  God has been so good to me.  I have so much to be thankful for.  My son and I had lunch with a friend.  It was a sweet time together.  I would have loved to have turkey, dressing, candied yams, corn, pumpkin pie and some other typical Thanksgiving day fare - but I enjoyed what we had instead.

Today, the day after Thanksgiving, our family would typically decorate our Christmas tree and enter into the Christmas season.  I'm not doing a tree this year, but I am looking forward to enjoying the season.  It truly is "the most wonderful time of the year" for me!  I love it. 

Christmas is a time for hope.  It's when we celebrate the hope of the world being born.  I'm so grateful that Jesus came - and I have hope for many answers to prayer in this season of hope.  

I heard this phrase recently:  "Hope begins when you stand in the dark looking out at the light."  It resonated in my heart because it feels like that's what I've been doing these past years in so many ways.  I stood in the dark while Floyd was so sick.  I stood in the dark as I trusted the Lord for provision to pay all the hospital bills.  I stood in the dark as I battled cancer.  I stood in the dark as some family members went through deep trials.  I stood in the dark as our ministry here went through some powerful shakings.  So many times I "felt" the darkness of all I was going through.

But in the midst of it all - I could see the light!!!  I could see, sense, feel, trust and hope for the light of the Lord to come through for me.  And He did!  Time and time and time again He met me.  He answered prayers.  He strengthened me.  He comforted me.  He provided for me.  He encouraged me.  And He built faith in my heart to hope for all the things I needed.  God was so, so faithful!  He is always the light that we can see when we stand in the dark moments in our life.

"For God, who said, "Let there be light in the darkness," has made this light shine in our hearts so we could know the glory of God."  2 Corinthians 4:6

"I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in His word I put my hope.  My soul waits for the Lord more than watchmen wait for the morning."  Psalm 130:5,6

"The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it."  John 1:5

"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

"Then God said, 'Let there be light' - and there was light."  Genesis 1:3

"Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows."  James 1:17

"For the fruit of the Light consists in all goodness and righteousness and truth."  Ephesians 5:9

"Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you."  Isaiah 60:1

No matter how bad, how dark things may seem - there is always hope.  And there is always God's light on the other side of the darkness.  He has helped me walk from darkness into light over and over again these past few years.  I am so grateful.  I bask in the light of His presence in my life.

His Wraparound Presence

I’ve shared about grief a number of times lately.  It comes in many forms and there is no expiration date!  I find my grief often pops up because of a memory trigger.  A sweet memory from the past comes to mind, and I miss Floyd all over again.  I'm grateful for the memories.  They are treasures that I savor.  But they do expose what's missing now, what I've lost.

I've never walked through this kind of grief before, so I don't know how long it will last - but I have a feeling it will stay with me.  I am also guessing it will be less intense as time goes on.

"The process of mourning is as unique to a person as a fingerprint."  I read this quote a few days ago.  I know it's true.  I have several friends who have lost their husbands, but each of our journeys are very different.  And that's okay.  We can grieve and mourn in any way our heart needs.  There's no right or wrong way to grieve.

I've found myself praying for comfort, grace, and healing for many others who are grieving.  I know the Lord is mindful of each one of us in our grief, and I pray for His "wraparound presence" to be with each of us.

"Your wraparound presence is my shield."  Psalm 7:10 TPT

"His wraparound presence is all I need."  Psalm 62:1  TPT

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

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

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction."  2 Corinthians 1:3

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

In many ways I "lost" Floyd almost 7 years ago when he first became sick - even though he only passed away a year and a half ago.  I want to testify to the Lord's goodness, comfort, care, and faithfulness over all that time.  He has truly been my "wraparound presence."  I'm so grateful!

This week has been a roller coaster one - up and down.  One day I'll have lots of energy.  The next day I'll have no energy.....I'm like a limp, wet rag.  I've learned to listen to my body and go with what it's saying to me.  I have so much I want to do, but some days it's not possible to do much of anything.

The one constant thing for me is that I'm grateful to be alive.  My doctor calls it a miracle, and I think she's right.  After all I've been through in recent years, I'm so thankful for life itself......even on my weak days.  The Lord carries me.  He is my strength.

With American Thanksgiving next week, I've been thinking of all the things I'm thankful for.  There are many!

-  As I said, I'm thankful for life itself.

-  I'm thankful for my family and friends who walk with me on this journey.  They have been so supportive.  I'm thankful for the modern communication that allows us to be in touch even through scattered all over the world. 

-  I'm thankful for our home.  It's such a blessing - my retreat.  Even though I spend so much time here because of my isolation, I never get tired of it.  I think one reason is because of the lovely ocean view I have.  It's ever-changing, and always reminds me of God's awesome creation.

-  I'm thankful for all of those who pray for me.  It gives me a sense of security, comfort and hope.

-  I'm thankful for meal delivery.  My cooking days are over!  During the pandemic many wonderful cooks opened up home based meal delivery.  It's wonderful!

-  I'm thankful for a good doctor who has walked with me on my cancer journey.  She's just a phone call away, and has been so supportive.

-  I don't drive a lot, but I'm thankful for my 21 year old car that is still in good shape and will probably serve me the rest of my years.  It was a miracle how I got it, and has been such a wonderful provision.

-  I'm thankful that winter is over and we're having lovely spring days. :)

The list could go on and on.  I have so much to be thankful for.  Most of all I'm thankful for God's goodness and mercy to me.  He has been so faithful day in and day out.  I sense His presence with me.  I don't feel alone, or lonely.  He is my strength and grace, my help, my counselor, my provider, my protector.  I couldn't make it without Him.

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

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

"For in Him we live and move and have our being."  Acts 17:28

"I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in His word I put my hope."  Psalm 130:5

"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 

Choose Trust Every Day

I don't think there is a day that goes by that I don't feel heartbroken over something that is happening.  It can be close to my heart - a friend or family member who is very ill.  It can be a tragic event in our area, like the fire in a nearby township.  It can be a catastrophic weather event.  They seem to be happening almost constantly all over the world.  My heart breaks - I want to do something - I want to change things - I want to meet the need, solve the problem.  But here I sit on my own battling cancer.  It's frustrating.

I was talking to the Lord about this, and He reminded me of a verse in Psalm 46:10.  "Cease striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."  

I know it boils down to trust.  I need to trust the Lord.  None of the problems are too big for Him, and nothing is out of control.  He is bigger than anything that is happening, and He is at work to accomplish His plans and purposes in our world.  When I don't understand, I need to simply tell Him I trust Him.

Trust is a lesson that I have learned over and over and over these last 8 years.  But it's not a lesson that is ever finished - "done and dusted" as they say here.  It's a lesson that I have to keep committing my heart to.  I have to keep choosing trust repeatedly.  When I make that choice - there is a "peace that passes understanding" that comes.  When I don't choose trust, there is the frustration of not being able to do something about all the needs and problems.

I am choosing trust afresh today.  There are several things that are heavy on my heart.  I am giving them to the Lord one by one.  I am expressing my confidence in the Lord to "be exalted in the earth" in each situation, each need, each problem, each concern, each worry, each fear.  He is trustworthy.  He is faithful.  He is over all!  He is mindful of every small and large thing on my heart.

"Jesus looked at them and said, 'With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God.' "  Mark 10:27

"Why are you in despair, O my soul?  And why have you become disturbed within me?  Hope in God!"  Psalm 42:5

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding." Proverbs 3:5

"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever."  Hebrews 13:8 

"Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand."  Proverbs 19:21

God is at work.  He is mindful of all that is happening.  My trust is in Him.  I will keep making that choice.  And I choose not to strive.

If you've read many of my updates, you know that I often hear the Lord speak to me through His creation, and through the every day things of life.  That happened to me this week.

Floyd was always very security conscious.  From the very early days of leading teams in outreach, he would carefully think through security protocols.  He felt if people were placed under his care then he wanted to do everything he could to protect them.  I always loved that about him.

When we moved to where I live now, he, once again, thought through all the security issues.  One important one is that we live in a fire risk area.  He bought fire extinguishers to place in many rooms of the house, in our little shed, etc.  These red canisters need to be serviced regularly in order to be at top form should they be needed in an emergency.  I'm grateful I've not had to use them, but I definitely want them to be fully functional.

So, this was the week when the service man came to our house to check that they are in working order.  He does some kind of "top up" to make sure they are fully ready to be used.

As I watched this process, I felt that little inner voice speaking to me.  I, too, need to have check ups to make sure I'm fully ready to be used by the Lord for whatever He has in store for me.  I can't just hope that all is well.  I can't postpone checking in with the Lord to see what He is speaking to me - what lessons he wants me to learn.  I can't neglect time with Him.  I can't skip reading His word.  I can't neglect talking to Him.  I can't neglect worshipping, praising, and thanking Him.  I need the regular "servicing" of the Holy Spirit to keep me in top form in my walk with the Lord.  Without adequate preparation, I won't make it through the "fires" of life.

I love visual reminders of important spiritual lessons.  The visuals stick with me, and remind me of important principles.  My fire extinguishers being maintained gave me a powerful visual this week - and will continue to do so when I see them around my house! 

"Physical training is good, but training for Godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come." 1 Timothy 4:8

"The one who gets wisdom loves life; the one who cherishes understanding will soon prosper."  Proverbs 19:8

"I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength."  Philippians 4:13

"The eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him."  2 Corinthians 16:9

"The Lord will guide you always; He will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame.  You will like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail."  Isaiah 58:11

"I will lift up my eyes to the hills - from whence comes my help?  My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth."  Psalm 121:1,2

I'm so grateful that the Lord is available 24/7 to fill us up with everything we need to face the "fires" of life.  He is so faithful!

Not Always Smooth Sailing

On Tuesday this week was the 16th anniversary of Floyd and my arrival in South Africa.  We arrived with 4 suitcases, very little money, and very little support.  It was just the 2 of us.  We didn't have a team.  We had a friend who invited us to stay with her while we got our bearings and figured out the way forward.  Our coming to South Africa was an act of obedience, and a fulfillment of something God had put on Floyd's heart many years before.  He had a deep, passionate love for Africa, and felt someday we would live and work here.  We never dreamed we would be starting over at 58 and 61 - but here we were!

Much has happened in those 16 years!  Some wonderful releases and victories, some wonderful people who joined us, and some wonderful confirmations that we were where God wanted us to be in this season of our lives.  But there were also some disappointments, some painful things, some very sad things, some very hard to understand things.  It was definitely not all plain sailing.  It was more like a giant roller coaster.

When we're obeying God and following in the paths He's chosen for us, I think we often expect things to go well, to go smoothly.  After all, we're doing what God told us to do!!  But over the 54 years of our married life and ministry I've learned that it doesn't always go that way.  We're involved in spiritual warfare as we seek to establish the things on God's heart, and that means "battles" along the way.  The encouraging thing is that God is right beside us in each and every battle.  He never leaves us to go through the warfare alone.

Even before the shock of Floyd's illness, the years in the hospital, and his eventual death - there had been spiritual battles.  And during his illness and since his death, there have been more.  I don't know why they catch me off guard.  The enemy doesn't want us to "win" in establishing the Kingdom.  He will fight us in every possible way.  But God always triumphs!  He wins.  He is victorious.  He is faithful to be beside us each step of the way.

We expected Floyd to be with us for many more years.  We expected him to walk with us as All Nations pioneered here in Cape Town and in sending workers across the African continent.  But that wasn't to be.  God had other plans - ones I don't fully understand.....but ones I trust with all my heart.

In All Nations International we want to see the things on Floyd's heart fulfilled.  One way we're doing that is establishing a scholarship fund to develop, equip, and empower African and women leaders.  I know Floyd would be so happy about this.  Floyd is now with Jesus, but his vision from the Lord lives on!  If you would like to know more about this fund click here.

"I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields!  They are ripe for harvest."  John 4:35

I'm excited about what God wants to do in South Africa and throughout the African continent!  He has good things in store.

Grief is an ever-changing emotion.  You think you've worked your way through it, and that healing has come.......and then something touches a vulnerable spot and it all flares up again.  I've read enough about grief to understand this is normal, but it still takes me by surprise sometimes.  Grief, however many times we walk through it, is a necessary part of healing.

As I went through my day on our arrival anniversary the grief came again and it turned out to be a tender day - sweetly so, but tender.  I love it here - it's home - and I have no plans to leave.  But all day long I kept thinking that I never dreamed I'd be living out these years alone.  Floyd was always so healthy and so physically strong and fit.  I could never have imagined what happened to him.  On this special day, I felt the grief of losing him all over again.

That same day a dear friend of ours passed away.  Actually, he was more than a friend.  He was a very key mentor in Floyd's life.  Dr. Gordon Fee impacted Floyd's life and ministry in so many ways.  He even visited us in Afghanistan and Amsterdam.  I can imagine Floyd and Gordon sitting together and catching up in heaven - and talking about their beloved Book of John.  Sweet memories from the past - sweet thoughts of them being together in heaven - and some tender grief popping up again.

Grief doesn't come in an orderly timeframe - a neat little box.  Just when we think we've dealt with it, another wave washes in.  Sometimes people think we should hurry along and get past our grief, but I've found with each new wave of grief the healing to my heart is sweeter and more precious.

I'm sure this will keep happening.  When it does, I turn to the Lord who has "borne our grief and carried our sorrows."  He lovingly brings fresh healing to my heart.  The Queen said "grief is the price we pay for love."  I'm grateful I can pay that price.  I've had such a wonderful life of love with my gentle giant.

"Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy."  John 16:22

"He will wipe every tear from their eyes.  There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away."  Revelation 21:4

"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."  Psalm 34:18 

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

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

"Jesus wept."  John 11:35

I'm comforted to know that Jesus understands grief.  And He lovingly comforts my heart when a wave of fresh grief comes.  I feel wrapped in His loving arms.  I'm so grateful!

The Gift of Peace

Proverbs 23:7 tells us that "as we think, so are we."  Our thoughts have such a powerful impact on us......much more I think than we even realize.  We are constantly bombarded with bad news.  It comes at us from all directions.  If we're not careful, it can overwhelm us and dominate our thoughts and emotions.

It's important to understand what is happening in our neighborhood, in our nation, and in the world.  We need to be aware in order to know how to pray.  Otherwise we can simply pray into a vacuum.  We can't hide away from the reality of what is going on in our world.

But our prayers for the "needs" around us should be balanced with "gratitude" for the good things around us.  I don't always get it right, but I try to do a simple thing: for each "need/concern/worry" that I lift up in prayer, I try to balance it with "thankfulness" for something.  It's a little thing to do, but I find it protects my heart from being weighed down.

During the years that Floyd was in the hospital and I was battling cancer - there were also some big things happening in the lives of other family members and some big things happening in our ministry.  I was very concerned, and I could have easily spent my whole day in prayer!!  The Lord spoke to me about surrounding my prayers with thankfulness, like a glove.  On the darkest of days, when the heaviest things were happening - I tried to find this balance.  There is always something to be thankful for.  I found this simple "equation" to be a massive protection to my heart.  It protected me from being overwhelmed.  In fact, whenever I start feeling overwhelmed, I try to stop and start thanking the Lord for His goodness, His mercy, His protection, His provision, His wisdom, His companionship, His healing, His faithfulness.  Doing this very quickly brings me back to balance in my heart and mind.

"Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits."  Psalm 103:2

"Praise the Lord.  Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever."  Psalm 106:1 

"Let them give thanks to the Lord for His unfailing love and His wonderful deeds for mankind.  Let them sacrifice thank offerings and tell of His works with songs of joy."  Psalm 107:21,22

"Let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise - the fruit of lips that openly profess His name."  Hebrews 13:15,16

***Note the last 2 verses mention sacrifice.  We may not always feel like being thankful because situations burden our hearts and minds so heavily.  But the sacrifice of worship turns the situation around!!

There are dozens and dozens of verses that speak to how important it is for us to be thankful and worship the Lord.  The Lord knew we would need to be continually reminded of this important principle.

Recently a family member was in a dangerous situation.  I was very burdened and praying continually.  I felt the weight of the situation.  Then the Lord reminded me of balancing my prayers with praise.  As soon as I started doing that, I felt the heaviness lifting.  I was still concerned, still praying up a storm......but not carrying it by myself.  The Lord took the burden.

I love this "equation" that He's given me.  It's a gift and protection!

Over the last 8 1/2 years I have faced things that were stressful, bewildering, painful, and sad.  Things that were hard to understand.  Things that stretched my ability to cope.  Even now I continue to face challenging things.  I know I can't make it on my own.  I am totally dependent on the Lord.

God has given us many good gifts.  He is a loving, generous Father.  I think one of the gifts I appreciate the most is His peace, a peace that is independent of circumstances.  A peace that makes no sense except it comes as a gift to us in hard situations.  I could not survive without His gift of peace.

Many times on the hardest, hardest, hardest of days I have been keenly aware that I'm carried through the day on a miraculous wave of peace that comes from the Father's heart.  He knows what I need and He washes over me with that sweet peace.  It might be a "small" thing that I'm dealing with - or it might be a mighty life and death issue......whatever it is, God's peace enables me to make it through the day.

I faced something this week that was hard for my heart to bear.  Once again, as I turned to the Lord, He covered me with His gentle, loving peace.  He lifted the heaviness and replaced it with His peace.  Yes, He gives many gifts, but the gift of peace is such a precious one.  It's one that we need over and over again - and God gives it freely and generously.  I'm so grateful!

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.  I do not give to you as the world gives.  Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."  John 14:27

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."  Philippians 4:6,7

"In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety."  Psalm 4:8

"May the Lord of peace Himself give you peace at all times and in every way.  The Lord be with all of you."  2 Thessalonians 3:16

"The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness..."

Galatians 5:22

"You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you."  Isaiah 26:3

Nothing and no one can give the peace that the Lord gives.  It doesn't even make sense to the natural mind - we face hard, impossible situations......and God gives a peace that defies what we're facing and enables us to keep going.  His peace is a priceless gift!  I thank Him for it today.