February 12
I’ve hit a wall. I feel like I’m in system shut-down. I chose to stay close to home for January and February. I wanted to see how I did without distractions, how I was going to handle life without Norm on a daily basis. It’s been an eye-opening experience.
I no longer have the urgent matters that had to be addressed after Norm’s passing. There are things I need to be doing or I will find myself in urgency again, because of my own procrastination…and right now, that’s the nation I’m in. Those activities that require preparation for other people, those are getting done…last minute…but getting done. But things around the house…not so much. My writing, my studies…taking more effort.
I find that the Norm’s absence weighs heavily on me, and moving forward is far more difficult than I expected. I’m usually a pick myself up by the bootstraps person and keep moving…it’s not as easy this time.
I need a reboot so I remind myself of this:
In the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words; and He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. Romans 8:26–28.
For I know the plans that I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11.
But now, thus says the Lord, your Creator, O Jacob, And He who formed you, O Israel,
“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are Mine!
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they will not overflow you.
When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, Nor will the flame burn you.
“For I am the Lord your God, The Holy One of Israel, your Savior
Is 43:1–3.
Where’s the joy?
I am thankful for the people that God has placed in my life to encourage and uplift me during this difficult time.
I pray for wisdom as I choose my words and actions each day, that they will be honoring to the Lord.
I rejoice…I am choosing to rejoice in the Lord my God, the Holy One of Israel, my Savior who holds me in the palm of His hand.
Where’s the joy? It’s God’s peace in the midst of the storm.
TRICIA LATHROP 