I am convinced that the Bible is the greatest "how to" book; and that when we go to God, He tells us exactly what we need to know at the exact moment we need to know it.
Last week, I was having a really hard time. I had been out of town in the hospital with my father (around the clock for several days and nights), had caught the flu at the hospital, and returned home exhausted and emotionally wrecked. I felt fragile, angry, and so out of sorts. It was if the beauty of life had been sucked down a black hole, and everywhere I turned I saw complete horseshit. I cried. I complained to my husband; and for a whole day, I seriously considered closing my business, and giving up on everything.
I tried (half-heartedly) to pray, and seriously wondered if the people who DON'T BELIEVE IN GOD have easier and happier lives....
But after allowing myself to wallow in misery; I decided that life without hope is worse. We don't lose until we give up.
I recommitted to God (in my best but lamest, crappiest way) and worked hard to remember the things I have learned these past few years since my aneurysm rupture. And then, ever so slowly, the storm calmed, and my ship righted itself again.
Our words have power. (Proverbs 18:21)
We get what we ask for. (Matthew 21:22)
When we call to Him, He answers us. (Jeremiah 33:3)
God knows all this, of course. He knows, He cares, and He has warned and instructed us.
Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.
- 1 Peter 4:12
Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
- 1 Peter 5:8
God is strong and he wants you strong. So take everything the Master has set out for you, well-made weapons of the best materials. And put them to use so that you will be able to stand up to everything that the Devil throws your way. This is no weekend war that'll we'll walk away from and forget about in a couple of hours. This is a for keeps, a life or death fight to the finish against the Devil and all of his angels.
-Ephesians 6:10-12
Submit yourselves to God, resist the devil and the devil will flee. Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.
-James 4:7-8
He knows that we are flawed and imperfect. He knows that we have an enemy that seeks to destroy us. Some days, we're going to feel rested, and strong, and love and praise Him with joyful, singing hearts. And other days, we're going to feel terrible, and everything is going to stink - and we're going to pray because we know we should-
What matters is that we try our best.
Love the Lord your God
with all your heart,
with all your soul,
with all your mind,
and with all your strength.
-Mark 21:30
XO
Sarah
These WHISPER earrings are a beautiful reminder that God hears us and speaks to us.
