I attended the women’s conference at my church this weekend. It’s called Heart Strong. This morning we started off with praise music. As praise music often does these days, I had some tears going. Words about the hardships we go through and how God is there just touches my heart so deeply, especially after living the hardship of Rob’s illness and passing. Because God and my faith have seen me through that, the words of these praise songs bring on tears of gratefulness.
At one point someone said “please close your eyes and a get a visual of God being here with you.” Immediately I had a picture of my Heavenly Father standing right beside me. He was clothed like we often see Jesus portrayed in movies and plays. But the visual was very real, as if someone had physically come to stand by me. I do believe that God is with us in that very way, but that we don’t recognize it… perhaps we don’t even look for it! I wouldn’t have, if it hadn’t been suggested to me today.
Zephaniah 3:17 “The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.”
Deuteronomy 31:8 “The Lord, himself, goes before you and will be there with you. He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”
Father, help each of us to be more aware of Your presence. To look for it more, to be quiet and listen for You more. To be quieted by Your love when we are hurting and anxious; to hear Your loud singing when You are rejoicing with us. To be bold rather than afraid or discouraged. Amen
Grace Under Pressure 