Let’s just say it’s been one of those days. And for me, I think the best thing to do right now is to dwell on some poetry that speaks to my heart. In The Message I’ve just found a paraphrase of the 23rd Psalm, which brings comfort to my weary soul…
“God, my shepherd! I don’t need a thing. You have bedded me down in lush meadows, you find me quiet pools to drink from.
True to your word, you let me catch my breath and send me in the right direction.
Even when the way goes through Death Valley, I’m not afraid when you walk at my side.
Your trusty shepherd’s crook makes me feel secure.
You serve me a six-course dinner right in front of my enemies. You revive my drooping head; my cup brims with blessing.
Your beauty and love chase after me every day of my life. I’m back home in the house of God for the rest of my life.”
I’ve lived long enough to know that dark emotions come… and they go. But when I allow myself to soak in the truth that God loves me – deeply – and that he truly does look after me, even if everything seems to be giving way – I find refreshment and hope to keep going. The words above help me visualize God’s nurturing, comfort, provision and protection. He hasn’t let me down. He is right beside me, and he’ll offer direction and insight as I rest on him. I am not afraid. He is the Good Shepherd, who takes care of his sheep. He lifts my head in his direction… and he blesses me with himself – his love, his beauty, his peace… and ultimately, his eternal home.
It's a God thing... 
Thanks Ali! It’s just what I needed to hear today!!!
I’m glad Von 🙂 Take care this week xxoo
Ali…I just posted on Longings End and then checked my email and read you blog post today. Half a world apart and we are having the same type of day it seems. And God, no matter where we are, is ALWAYS FAITHFUL!! Sending you blessings of encouragement and lots of love…
And what a beautiful blog post it was Sheila. Thanks for keeping reminding me that He is the same, regardless of the changing seasons of our emotions. May He give us both brighter days, filled with His everlasting hope and His glorious promises xx
Thanks, Ali, and amen to brighter days!! And SPRING and SUNSHINE!! Although it looks like the Hudson Valley will get another snow storm tonight into tomorrow!! 😦
THANKS, Ali. And AMEN to brighter days. {Had trouble posting, hope this is not redundant.}
Isn’t great to be able to open His love letter to us and find a passage that brings calm in the face of storms?
It sure is Patti – I love the way you express that – opening His love letter to us 🙂 We are so blessed to have access to His heart, whenever we need it.
“He lifts my head in His direction”–I love this part best!! Praying for you always–God bless you BIG–love, sis Caddo
Thanks Caddo! May He lift your head in His direction today as you await a fresh outpouring of His love and joy. Thanks for being a blessing sister 🙂
Thank you for bringing something that blessed you in your moment of need . ..and letting God bless us in ours as well. I was touched by ‘Your beauty and love chase after me every day of my life.” God bless you and yours, Ali, as He chases after you today, and wraps His love around you!
Thank you Debbie, He’s amazing isn’t He? May that beauty and love revive you today as you lean into Him. Thank you so much for being a blessing right back 🙂
I’m a couple days behind – I hope you are having better days now 🙂
This is a great reminder that even in difficult times, God provides what we need. (Something I should remember especially now, as I worry myself over what ifs and maybes – just trust that He will see to it that all happens as it should.)
It is hard isn’t it, but it is reassuring to know he’s in control and is walking right beside us no matter what happens, guiding us along. Hope all is well as you plan your move.
I’ve had a much better second half of the week thanks. More issues with my eldest son but I’m feeling much more at peace now and asking God for strategies for each new day, in the ‘season’ I’m currently in 🙂
OH, that sounds intense Sheila – praying you’re kept warm and safe, and that Spring’s warmth will soon be upon you!
(Here in Australia we’re moving into Autumn (our name for Fall) – warm days are lessening but I’m OK with Winter – Aussie winters are quite undramatic at least!)
Psalm 23:6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
I believe that when those of us who believe in Jesus the Christ, leave a store or a friends’ apartment, we should leave behind us, “GOODNESS” and “MERCY”.
Amen! Love that image, and praying that we would all leave that legacy.