Ancient Words For Today - 19
I remember an occasion when I had a particularly difficult, trying day. It seemed as if every thing that could go wrong did go wrong, and even in those situations when I thought nothing could go wrong - something did. Problems I didn't know about kept surfacing. Looking around the house, I saw piles of paperwork that each were pressing projects I was behind on. Realizing there were way more things to do than I could possibly accomplish, many questions I didn't have the answers for, and some situations for which I didn't even know the questions to ask - I became frustrated, grumpy and troubled. That day ended about 3 AM, after proof-reading a 220 page deposition I had given. Oh how good it was to turn off the lights and fall to sleep!
The next morning, recalling my yesterday and how many things were left undone, I remembered that Paul the Apostle told the church at Philippi: "I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me." Considering all that Paul endured following his conversion to Christianity, my problems paled by comparison and faded from view. My focus changed, from the dizzying circumstances in my life, to Jesus Christ. Drawing near to Jesus, I was comforted by His presence. As some of His great and precious promises came to mind, I found peace, knowing that He was right there with me and would help me to accomplish what was important and necessary. I was refreshed and found renewed strength and courage to face whatever challenges the new day might bring. I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH CHRIST, WHO STRENGTHENS ME!!
I thought I would leave you with some of the comforting words that changed my perspective and restored my focus so that I could move ahead with confidence.
...He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me. Hebrews 13:5-6
He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, "He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust." Surely He shall deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the perilous pestilence. He shall cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you shall take refuge; His truth shall be your shield and buckler. You shall not be afraid of the terror by night,
Nor of the arrow that flies by day, nor of the pestilence that walks in darkness, Nor of the destruction that lays waste at noonday. A thousand may fall at your side, And ten thousand at your right hand; but it shall not come near you. Psalm 91:1-7
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. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light. Matthew 11:28-29
May God give you His peace and prosper your way as you rest and abide in Him.