I Will Praise You in This Storm

Lopez Lomong says, "When you have suffered deeply, you understand that courage is the only way to fight fear, the best way to step forward. This is the first move to be better." OMG, the tornados that have hit MO, AR, KS, and OK are so devastating that it is hard to fathom.

It makes the words to Casting Crowns song "Praise You in This Storm" seem so relevant. I will share them with you,

"I was sure by now, God, You would have reached down and wiped our tears away, stepped in and saved the day, but once again, I say 'Amen', and it's still raining. As the thunder rolls, I barely hear Your whisper through the rain, 'I'm with you.' And as Your mercy falls, I raise my hands and praise the God who gives and takes away. And I'll praise you in this storm, and I will lift my hands for You are Who You are no matter where I am. And every tear I've cried, You hold in Your hand. You never left my side and though my heart is torn, I will praise You in this storm. I remember when I stumbled in the wind, You heard my cry to You, and You raised me up again. My strength is almost gone. How can I carry on if I can't find You? But as the thunder rolls, I barely hear You whisper through the rain 'I'm with you.' And as Your mercy falls, I raise my hands and praise the God who gives and takes away. I lift my eyes unto the hills. Where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of Heaven and Earth."

God is our sure and steady companion. He will take our burdens away and lighten our load. "May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, Who loved us and through grace gave us eternal comfort and good hope, comfort your hearts and strengthen them." (2 Thessalonians 2:16-17)

My prayers enfold the residents of Joplin. We were coming back from a graduation and missed that storm by an hour. "I am grateful to God....when I remember you constantly in my prayers night and day." (2 Timothy 1:3)

Love and Light,
Patty

Who's in Control Anyway?

"Nothing splendid has even been achieved except by those who dared believe that something inside them was superior to circumstances" wrote Bruce Barton. Too often we let circumstances govern our lives. Who is in control anyway? If we believe the circumstances are in control, then where is our trust and faith in God?

Whenever we feel frustrated, we need to ask ourselves what should be different about our situation. Is it that we aren't getting our own way about something? If we can release control into God's hands, we can experience peace and relaxation. If our situation needs changed, we can change it more easily from a sense of calmness rather than a sense of frustration.

This morning I got ready to go to school but couldn't find my keys. Then I remembered that we had to use a certain key on the key ring to retrieve the toll tag in another car. Long story short I think my keys are locked up in my husband's vehicle at the airport an hour away.

At first I panicked and then I remembered to focus. I called the sub coordinator and told her that I lacked transportation today and that she would have to find someone else to teach. I was suddenly grateful for the time that I now have to clean house and do laundry. I am too far behind on those chores anyway.

I am grateful today that I can release my control to God. I am receptive to the gift and opportunity of this day. I move forward and open myself to God's good. Like Colossians 1:10 says, "You may lead lives worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to Him, as you bear fruit in every good work and as you grow in the knowledge of God." I'm trusting God for a happy, healthy, enjoyable day. Hope you are doing the same.

Love and Light,
Patty