Remember.

Every so often I have to be reminded of things. If I’m not, I tend to forget Who is really in control. And when I forget that, I get cranky, then maybe sad; then it can be an easy slide into discouragement.

In these frightening political/economic times, & in our frenetic & distracted society, it’s sometimes not a terribly long way from ‘forgetting’ to ‘discouragement.’ There’s precious little good news swirling around us, & I will inevitably get caught in the web of negativity; & it’s a sticky, viscous snarl, that web.

However…God is so good & gracious. And I'm thankful to be a writer – sophomoric as my skills are – that I can articulate the ways He speaks to me, moves me, assures me. Today, all I have to do is scroll down to refresh my memory, & it’s there – in words from my very own fingertips (thanks be to God).

Today I need to remember. Join me?

1) My God is bigger than I am .

2) My God knows me inside & out, deeply & intimately; the humbly noble & the raw, sin-slain humanity.

3) My God loves me inside & out, deeply & intimately – anyway.

4) My God is able to craft victory out of brokenness, arise glorious out of discouragement & defeat.

5) My God is always whispering my name & searching my face for acknowledgement. He knows the smallest details of my life & is always at work for my good.

“Be strong & courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged…for there is greater power with us…with us is the Lord our God to help us and to fight our battles. And the people gained confidence from what Hezekiah the king of Judah said.” 2 Chron. 32: 7-8

Be encouraged, dear one! I am with you, & I will fight any battle for you. Have hope sweet one, because I am strength! And take heart, because I use you, too, to bring light to others, just like I did through that precious young woman! In the mean time, you just be strong & courageous, relax in my strength…leave the rest of the battle to Me.

And from Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways acknowledge Him & He will make your paths straight.”

Here's the thing about trusting God , the notion that He has designed each of us for this generation, for this very time in history, for His purpose: I get it with my head...but when the details get blurred by life, trusting can take on a certain gritting of the soul. It's in these times that I find myself surprised by the tenderness of God's voice (like in the Dec. piece). Sometimes I find myself waiting, only to learn that "being still & knowing, staying & resting" is the point. And even if I don't see clearly, God is there; always moving & working toward His purpose for my life. And - if I pay attention & listen - I just may catch a vapor of His Spirit passing over me.

I guess that's what my epiphany was : to try & live each day with a deeper trust & understanding that Christ has come, is here among us, & is ever-present. That I'm seeking Him. And, to celebrate - not just on January 6th, but every day - that when I seek Him, He will be found.
Hallelujah!

God is so tender and good, friends, & He is speaking to us this very day.

God is speaking, whispering, nudging, beckoning.Will we seek His Hope? Will we respond & move forward with courage? Will we see this as our time, knowing that our Hope is trustworthy, dependable, eternal?

“Now is the time for those of us who embody this kingdom to defend the truth, overcome evil with good, and live lives that proclaim and display heaven in the real world.” Steven Curtis Chapman

Hallelujah. Amen.

So remember this Thanksgiving, be thankful for the only country in the world that celebrates Thankfulness to God for just being a country! Be thankful that you are citizens of that nation which truly is the best place in the world to come home to.

Personally, I'm deeply thankful for my husband - whose love helps me live & breathe. I'm thankful for our 3 children who are delight & challenge beyond all I could've ever imagined. The gratitude swells up & it is humbling. Our God is great. Our God is good. He is in control, & I am thankful.

Be thankful. Be encouraged.

Remember.

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