Don’t miss Truth or Dare, September 9th, 6-8 pm! We are going to have lots of fun and also frank discussion about specific issues that we as women struggle with at times. Jesus said, “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:32) Whether or not you think you struggle with issues, you know someone who does. We not only want to speak truth in to the lives of women who are dealing with issues but also equip ourselves all with tools to minister to family members or friends that we all know who are hurting.
Part 1
Do you trust God? When thinking about that question I normally would give a resounding “Yes”. However, circumstances in the last couple of weeks have caused me to wonder if I really do!
A week and a half ago my son accepted a job which required him to move to California for eleven weeks. Last Tuesday he packed his clothes, an air mattress, some food and a few other necessary items in his vehicle and headed west all by himself with no place to stay! Part of this Mama’s heart was excited for the great adventure that he was embarking on and the other part was scared to death!
In the week since he has been gone, you can only imagine all of the emotions I have felt. At the core of who I am, I know God is in control and yet I feel so out of control! I guess that’s the whole point! Reality is I’m not in control of anything.
Do I really believe my God is capable of watching over and protecting Jordan? Yes I do. Do I still worry about him and wonder how he is doing? Yes I do! Just being honest here. Are there times when you worry and feel out of control?
I’ve been preaching to myself a lot and hanging onto truths from God’s word that have brought peace and comfort. Here are some of the reminders that I have clung to:
- “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.” Isaiah 26:3
- “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
- “Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning: great is your faithfulness.” Lamentations 3:22-23
Do you find yourself worried and out of control today? If so, pick up God’s word and start reading! Read out loud. I can’t explain it but I’ve found it to be true, peace really does come when my mind is stayed on Him and I am not consumed by worry.
Part 2
I wrote the previous post for last Monday and it didn’t get posted. So I thought I would give you a quick update to answered prayer! Jordan has found a place to live with four young men who lead YoungLife, are passionate about their walk with Christ, and close to his age! What a blessings. The story is too long to write but the connection was made through three sisters in Christ, two whom I’ve never met but we were introduced over Facebook! Reminding myself today that God’s word is TRUTH and I must read it, claim it, and walk in its truth daily!
Last week we began a new Fall semester of Bible studies at Long Hollow. Find out all about them by clicking on “Women In the Word” at the top of this page. We have Women’s studies on Tuesday and Wednesday. God’s word really is a “lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path.” I hope you will join us! Come tomorrow and bring a friend. There is a great variety of studies offered for all women.
Praying I’ll practice what I preach today!!
Julie