If you have followed world news over the past couple of weeks, you have probably experienced a measure of grief, disbelief, anger, fear or depression over some of the events that have taken place in the U.S: the fatal shooting of The Voice star, Christina Grimmy, followed, the next day, by the senseless mass shooting of over 100 individuals at the Orlando nightclub. 49 dead. Days later, we were sickened by the shattering news of the freakish Disney World alligator-drowning of toddler Lane Graves. This tragedy forced us to face the grim reality that even the “happiest place on earth” is powerless to protect us from life’s devastating hardships.
These recent events call to mind one of Jesus’ less favorable promises. “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
We face trouble on a national level…on a world level. We also face trouble on a personal level. These individual trials have the capacity to trump our fixation on discouraging world news and tail-spin us into dark places of fear and depression They come in the form of marital chaos, unforeseen lab results, infertility, a job layoff, strained friendships, parenting trials and a myriad of unfulfilled longings. These hardships lay the foundation for mounting anxiety, stress, irrational thinking, substance abuse, insomnia, loss of appetite, loss of passion and a loss of purpose.
This past weekend I found amazing the human soul’s ability to rise above pain and suffering. Amidst the chaos in our world and our personal lives, many paused this past weekend to celebrate something good: Fathers. This national holiday allowed us to honor our Dads, husbands, sons, and all the other priceless friends who had become dads.
I paused to enjoy each one of our adult children’s sentiments about their sweet daddy; but it was our youngest son’s picture selection, and the way God captured his attention through it, that caused me to remember the vast number of individuals who have been profoundly impacted by the recent tragedies.
Peace…be still.
I know there may be some reading this post who have not known an earthly father with whom you have experienced rest and safety, but into the longing of your soul, your Heavenly Father makes a promise, “I will not fail you or forsake you!” (1 Chron 23:20b)
When life’s challenges overwhelm… let Him carry you.
When you are too weary to walk another step… let His strength sustain you.
When anxieties strip your last ounce of peace, lay your troubled head on His.
Give your burdens to the Lord and He will sustain you! (Psalm 55:22)
He has a perfect view of the road ahead. As a matter of fact, He already traveled it ahead of you! He knows every looming threat.
Peace…Be still.
He will never allow a hardship to enter your life unless He already has a plan to reconstruct it for your greatest good.
Those who live in the shelter of the Most High, will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. (Psalm 91:1)
Your Heavenly Father doesn’t condemn you because you have lost your strength.
Instead, He invites you to cease from your endless striving and simply rest…until you find your strength in Him.
Peace…Be still.
He isn’t keeping score of your achievements…nor is He comparing you against others.
Peace…be still.
He will equip and empower you to accomplish every good thing He has chosen you to do.
Now may the God of peace—equip you with all you need for doing his will. May he produce in you,through the power of Jesus Christ, every good thing that is pleasing to him. (Hebrews 13:20-21)
Enter His presence today, with all your anxiety, fear, trouble, doubt, pain, and discouragement…and experience His peace. He will carry your life when the landscape around you is frightening and the road ahead is too slippery and steep to navigate.
When the chaos in our world unravels your soul, simply lay your head on the Head of the Almighty, breathe deeply…and rest.
He will hold you securely…He will hold you together.
Peace…be still.
Anchor of Hope: “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to Me. Get away with Me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” Matthew 11:29-30 The Message
You expressed so beautifully what I have been feeling for several days. I cried through most of it. Thank you for your words and wisdom and perspective. God bless.
Beautiful…just what I need to hear, thank you!
Awesome words!!
Thank you!
Exactly what I needed to hear during this season of my life! Thank you Patty for being obedient to the words that the Lord lays on your heart.
Thank you, Patty! You have expressed Our Father’s love so beautifully and profoundly and it has blessed me to read your words.