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!

God Room

I shared this past Tuesday about the "miracle of the rain" in 1985 in Randers, Denmark.  Being reminded of that stirred my faith to trust God for new miracles.

A few days ago, a friend reminded me of a message of Floyd's - "Trusting God for the Impossible."  I decided to listen to it.  It stirred my faith once again - and it touched my heart as Floyd shared some sweet affirmations about me.  It was a precious birthday gift to me.

One of the things Floyd talked about is "God Room."  It's when we do everything possible, and then we step into the area where things are impossible.....God Room.  We have to leave things in His hands - trusting Him to do what we can't.  I feel like there are several things in my life in the area of God Room.  I need to stir my faith to trust God for things I can't do - things that are impossible.

"With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."  Matthew 19:26

"Is anything too hard for the Lord?"  Genesis 18:14

"Almighty Lord, you made heaven and earth by your great strength and powerful arm.  Nothing is too hard for you."  Jeremiah 32:17

"I know that you can do all things, and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted."  Job 42:2

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

"All things are possible for one who believes."  Mark 19:23

"If God is for us, who can be against us?"  Romans 8:31

"Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen."  Ephesians 3:20

I've seen many miracles in my life, and I long to see more.  I have fresh faith stirred in my heart to believe God for them.  I'm waiting.  God is so awesome!

Floyd's message - and many others - are on the All Nations International website in the Founders Library.  There are audio and video teachings, books, and news.  It's a work in progress with more and more things being continually added to it. 

To find Floyd’s message click on All Nations in the menu bar where you will find the drop down link for Founders' Library. 

Miracle Working God

A relative was recently in Randers, Denmark where we had a GO Festival in 1985.  Many initiatives and callings came out of that time.  While visiting there people were recalling the "miracle" during the Festival.  Luis Palau was scheduled to speak in an outdoor setting to 9000 people in attendance.  A pouring rain fell over the city - but not over the outdoor stadium.  Someone showed our relative a newspaper clipping from 1985 with a photo of the dry stadium and the rain coming down around it.  I had totally forgotten about this until our relative reminded me.  All these years later, it encouraged me again....and I thanked the Lord for the miracle.  It was such a wonderful testimony!  It increased my faith to pray for new miracles.

I'm learning that grief is an unpredictable thing....and it seemingly never goes away.  It's been over 3 years since Floyd passed away - and it was 5+ years before that when I "lost" him to the sickness that enveloped him.  I've grieved for a long time.  And yet, sometimes grief hits my heart so hard that it seems like it all just happened.

Special days (like his recent birthday), an unexpected memory, a lonely moment, just about anything.....can cause the grief to well up.  I've known Floyd since I was 16 years old.  He's been the love of my life and my best friend.  I still feel like part of me is missing.  I thought I would "get over" grief after a while, but I think it will be with me for a long time - maybe for the rest of my life.

In the midst of these recent tender days, there was a photo of Floyd in an All Nations International newsletter.  I love the photo and the quote.  I've posted it above.

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

"Jesus wept."  John 11:35

When Lazarus died, Jesus wept.  He grieved over His friend - before He raised him from the dead.  Jesus understands our grief.  I find that a comfort.  He faced everything we face, and comforts us when we go through life's difficulties.  I'm so grateful for that!

Partaking in Christ's Suffering

I've been thinking recently about the verses that tell us to partake in Christ's sufferings.  We think immediately of the cross and wonder how that could possibly pertain to us.  But Christ suffered in so many other ways.  

He suffered loneliness because of not being understood.  He suffered criticism.  He gave up home and comforts to travel and minister to people.  He poured out Himself in teaching and healing people to the point of exhaustion.  He had to deal with a "team" of difficult men in order to train and disciple them.  He spent 40 days alone in the wilderness - and had to resist the temptations and taunting of the enemy.  He suffered in countless ways.

When we go through difficult things, we tend to get frustrated and upset.  We don't see any of it as partaking in Christ's sufferings - but what if we changed our perspective?  Maybe it would help us get through the hard times - and help us press into the Lord for grace and strength.  

None of us like going through difficulty, but we tell the Lord we want to be more like Him.  I think it would be good to remind myself of that when hard things come my way!  Being more like Christ requires dying daily to self.  I need to keep that in my focus during hard times.  

"Do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ's sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy."  1 Peter 4:12-16

"Since we are His children, we are his heirs.  In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God's glory.  But if we are to share His glory, we must also share His sufferings.  Yet what we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory He will reveal to us later."  Romans 8:17,18

"I want to know Christ - yes, to know the power of His resurrection and participation in His sufferings."  Philippians 3:10

"Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross."  Hebrews 12:2

"I can do all things through Him who strengthens me."  Philippians 4:13

The Lord has promised to always be with us.  So if we go through hard things as partaking in Christ's sufferings - He will be with us to get through them.  I am so grateful for His grace and help.  He is always faithful!

He's in the Simple Things

I've had a couple things happen recently that have reminded me that we serve a God who is involved in the practical details of life.  He's with us in the simple every day things.  A few days ago we noticed that the wires to one of my outdoor security alarm sensors had been cut.  We wondered if someone had jumped over the gate to cut it during the day with the intent of returning at night for robbery.  It was unsettling.

I immediately prayed - speaking out the Lord's protection over me....especially without Floyd.  And then I spent the next 2 1/2 hours following through on this.  I called the security company and asked them to do extra patrols during the night.  I alerted my neighbors.  I looked on my camera footage to check if I could see anything.  And I called the technician who works on the security system.  He was awesome.  In spite of it being Friday afternoon, and the end of his work day - he came from the other side of the valley to help sort this out "so I could sleep better."  I was so grateful!  He got everything fixed and back to normal.

The wonderful thing, too, was that during this whole process I felt such peace.  I was busy working to take care of everything.....but I wasn't fearful.  My heart was at rest.  It definitely was a "peace that passes understanding" that could only come from the Lord!  I knew the Lord had been with me in a special way.

When we came to South Africa we were given a "bakkie" (a truck to Americans).  It was such a special gift!  Before long we realized that I also needed a vehicle.  Floyd and I were often going separate ways to meetings and appointments.  We prayed and were given a gift to buy me a car.  We found a 2001 Toyota Rav that was perfect.  It had been driven by a lady to just run her errands - low mileage and in immaculate condition and with an unbelievably low price.  I'm sure the Lord saved it for me because it should have sold!

It is now 23 years old.  It has been a faithful, reliable car.  I've maintained regular service for it.  It recently went in for a check up, and a number of things needed to be repaired and replaced.  I was a bit shocked when I learned what it would all cost - but, again, as I prayed I had such peace that all was well.  The Lord reminded me that He had saved that car for me, and it would continue to serve me for a long time.  I felt carried by the Lord in the process.

Both of these things made me miss Floyd.  He would normally be helping me with the "details" of life.  In his absence, the Lord has truly undergirded me and been with me.  It's been a "blessed assurance" to see how He has covered and protected me.  I'm so thankful!

"Come near to God and He will come near to you."  James 4:8

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

"He shall not be afraid of evil tidings; his heart is firmly fixed, trusting in the Lord."  Psalm 112:7

"Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, O Lord.  They rejoice in your name all day long; they exult in your righteousness."  Psalm 89:15, 16

I have truly been blessed as the Lord has helped me with the practical things of daily life.  I'm so very grateful for His loving care.  I can bring every detail to Him.  He listens, He cares, and He helps me.  I feel safe and secure "under His wings."

We Need Jesus More Than Ever

There are so many things happening in our world these days that "shake" us.  Things that undermine our security and sense of well being.  Things that bring fear to our hearts.  Things that rob us of peace.  Things that make us concerned for the future.  Just listening to or reading the news each day requires a lot of courage.  We live in a world that needs the love of Jesus more than ever.

In times like these, we need to hold onto the Rock, our Lord Jesus, more than ever.  We need to trust Him, knowing that He is at work and has a plan for our world.  No matter how bad things look or how shaken we are, we can rest in Him.  He is watching over us.  He is near to us, and He is working in our lives.

I have several friends going through really difficult things.  This is the reassurance for them and for all of us.  He loves us, He is mindful of every situation we're facing, and He is at work to help us.  His love and care for us is unfailing - even if we can't see it clearly in our hard situation.

" '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,' says the Lord, who has compassion on you."  Isaiah 54:10

He is unshakeable!!!

"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

"Though youths grow weary and tired, and vigorous young men stumble badly, yet those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary."  Isaiah 40:30, 31 NASB

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

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

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

I can't make it through even one day without the Lord's grace, strength, and help.  He is available 24/7 to hear my cry for help.  He is with me, even carrying me, in each thing I'm facing.  I'm so grateful to Him!

We are Not Alone

I know there are many who are going through difficult times.  Thank goodness we are not alone.  God is with us - our refuge, our help in times of trouble.  How faithful He is.

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

"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

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

"The eternal God is a dwelling place, and underneath are the everlasting arms."  Deuteronomy 33:27

"The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous runs into it and is safe."  Proverbs 18:10

"The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my Rock, in whom I take refuge; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold."  Psalm 18:2

On hard days, it helps me to speak out the promises from the Word of how God is there to help me.  There are so many.  I quote them, sing them, pray them.  They become alive in my heart as I do that.  He is with me, always there to help me.  And He even "carries" me when my strength lags.  I'm so grateful.

Reminded of His Goodness

In the midst of some recent difficult days, the Lord spoke three specific, encouraging words to my heart.

The first is that I'm not able to cope with the difficult things with my physical strength.  When hardships come, it's the inner strength that He gives me that helps me get through the outside pressures.  He empowers me from within!  He helps me not to falter when life's storms hit me.  "The power of Christ within you is greater than the pressure of troubles around you."  (anonymous)

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

The second thing is the Lord reminding me that He cares.  He is mindful of everything I'm facing, and He cares for me.  He loves me as His precious daughter, and He's working to help me.

"Cast all your care upon Him, for He cares for you."  1 Peter 5:7

And the third thing is that He's carrying me.  I may feel alone, but He's right with me and even carrying me when I'm weary.  I may be weak from the various circumstances I'm facing, but I can relax into His arms and let Him carry me.  So precious!

"I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you."  Isaiah 46:4

I'm grateful for your encouraging messages - thank you!  And I'm grateful for the sweet reminders from the Lord!  He is so faithful.

Our Times are in His Hands

As I was going through some things recently, I came across an email to a friend from several years ago.  It reminded me of some things from these last years.  I felt impressed to share them here.

When we go through difficult times - trials, sickness, suffering, etc. - we tend to spiritualize those times.  We may feel it's an attack of the enemy - and sometimes it is!  We may feel lonely, isolated, discouraged even.  One of the things I've learned is that these difficult times may be allowed by the Lord.  He uses them to draw us closer to Him.  

I've been keenly aware of these recent years being a time of "isolation."  I've had friends around, but I was the one going through the hard things.  I've HAD to press into the Lord to survive.  Because of that, it's been a rich and precious time.  My walk with the Lord has gone to new depths because of this.  It's a treasure and gift that I'm so grateful for!

When I reflected back, I could see several times when the Lord allowed similar seasons in my life.  Each one of those times has been a rich time of pressing into the Lord.  There's been growth that I wouldn't have expected.  I haven't particularly "liked" those seasons, but I can see the fruit that the Lord brought into my life each time.  I've learned to trust the Lord's goodness and wisdom in allowing me to go through these times - knowing He sees what is best for me, even if it's hard.

"Oh taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who trusts in Him."  Psalm 34:8

"Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, O Lord."  Psalm 89:15

"O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water."  Psalm 63:1

"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 said to the Lord, 'You are my Lord; apart from you I have no good thing.' "  Psalm 19:2

Our days, our times, our seasons are in God's hands.  He will be with us in whatever we walk through, and will use it for good in our lives.  Nothing is "wasted" in God's eyes.

Laughter is a Gift

I was having a hard day recently.  Several things had happened that pulled me down.  My heart was heavy, and I wasn't sure what to do about some things.  I felt alone, too, as I didn't have Floyd to talk to.

Then something happened that made me laugh - one of those deep, belly jiggling laughs.  I laughed for a couple minutes - and then felt so much better.  It reminded me of the Bible verses that talk about this.  "A merry heart does good, like medicine."  Proverbs 17:22

Many years ago when our daughter was quite ill, one of her doctors suggested watching funny movies.  He thought laughter would help her!  There are many known physical benefits from laughter.  Laughter, it seems, is a very healthy thing!!

I came across the cartoon attached at the bottom.  I don't know the source, but I agree with the statement!  Laughter is definitely good exercise.  It made me laugh too!

"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

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

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

"Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh."  Luke 6:21

"The cheerful heart has a continual feast."  Proverbs 15:15

There are long lists of the benefits of laughter to us physically.  Do a google search if you're interested.  It's really quite amazing.  I just know it really helps me.

"Laughter is the sun that drives winter from the human face."  - Victor Hugo

Laughter is a gift to us from the Lord!!

The Life Blood of Gratitude

I shared last week that hope has been like a kind of oxygen that helped my heart to survive these last 10 difficult years.  In the midst of a difficult day recently, the Lord reminded me of another key thing that has gotten me through these things.  Gratitude and thankfulness have been life giving to my soul.

On the hardest day, in the darkest night, when feeling so alone that I could hardly catch my breath - the Lord has encouraged me to be thankful.  It might be for the smallest thing, but gratitude lifts despair and helps me keep things in perspective.  For a while I kept a daily list of things to be thankful for just so I could train my thoughts to think that way.  From small things like the ocean beauty I look at to big things like being alive......there is so much to be thankful for.

Hope is like the oxygen I breath, and gratitude is like the blood coursing through my veins.  Both are vital.  Both protect us from sinking in the stormy trials.  Both keep us focused on the Lord.  He is our lifeline!

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

"Whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him."  Colossians 3:17

"Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good."  1 Chronicles 16:34

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

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

I have sat down several times to write this update today.  Each time I have been interrupted by something.  It's been a busy day - a couple things have been frustrating.  So, I started with being thankful - and then wrote the update.  Thankfulness puts everything in perspective.

The Oxygen of Hope

A very big key ingredient of my journey for the last 10 years has been hope.  I remember the day I was diagnosed with the big C word (cancer).  It was devastating!  Floyd and I sat in the car and cried together - and then we prayed.  We gave the burden of it to the Lord.   We asked for healing.   We asked for grace for the path ahead.  And we asked for hope to be planted in our hearts.  I believe it was - a kernel of hope was deposited deeply and securely in our hearts.

Through the ups and downs.  Through the good days and bad days.  In the day, and especially in the nights - hope was there.  It cried out to the Lord for healing relief and for strength to carry on. We breath oxygen to live.  Hope became a kind of oxygen that helped my heart survive.  

My oncologist says that hope is a key ingredient in her patients that make it through cancer treatment.  She said some of her patients just give up as soon as they hear the word cancer.  And others gear up for the battle and cling to hope in their hearts.  She says without hope, they don't make it. 

I picture that kernel of hope growing into a tree in my heart.  It's been fed by the Lord as its grown.  I continue to cling to it as my journey goes on.  I couldn't have made it without hope.

"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

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

"Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer."  Romans 12:12

"For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence, for my hope is from Him.  He only is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be shaken."  Psalm 62:5,6

During this month as I've thanked the Lord that I'm still alive after 10 years of living with and battling cancer, I am so aware of the hope that God put in my heart all those years ago sitting in that car.  Thank you, Lord, for the oxygen of hope in my heart!   It's been a lifesaver.

I Have the Lord

I was watching a movie a couple days ago.  One of the characters said - "I can't concentrate on the 'what ifs.' I have to look at the 'what do I have.' "  I stopped and thought about that.  I've said similar things in past posts, but I pondered the truth of these words again.

It doesn't matter how many times I've had to choose not to look at the "what ifs."  There are always new situations when I have to make the choice again.  We face new challenges, new hardships, new things that we have no control over......and we can't get stuck in the "what ifs."  We'll drown in the sea of thinking "what if,"  "if only," or "why."

In each situation, stopping to think "what do I have" is a fruitful exercise......because we always have the Lord to help us!!!  It's not only what we may have physically, it's also what we have in knowing God is continually with us, holding our right hand, and guiding us.  I "have" the Lord - that's more than enough.  

So much of the battle in getting through a hard time is in the mind.  What we choose to think about will impact us in so many ways.  As we focus on what we "have" in the Lord, it strengthens us to get through the trial.  We "have" so much!

"For God has not given us a spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind."  2 Timothy 1:7

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

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

"Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life."  Proverbs 4:23

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

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

I've been coming to the conclusion that it's a daily exercise to think about "what I have."  If I start each day that way, it lifts the burden from my heart of whatever I'm facing.  I "have" the Lord, and He will help me get through whatever I face.  He's always faithful to do that!