Tag Archives: perfect peace

Finding Peace in My Storm

Peace in My Storm

Peaceful Setting at Harmony Baptist Church

 

“You, Lord, keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.” Isaiah 26:3

As long as many can remember, this grand old tree faithfully shaded the church, cemetery, and road, providing a safe place for folk on Sunday and through the week. Only time will tell how many souls have found peace and rest in Jesus in the comfort of that sturdy oak.

From across the land, people gathered here to encourage one another after a funeral. Many weary travelers found rest as they picnicked in safety. Folks lingered long in its cool shade after a Sunday dinner at church; it was family time.

Today, not even a stump remains as wind and storms have taken their toll. Gone, too, are many of those pictured above including my sweet hubby. I am left with this lone photo. Precious as the memories are, it’s often not enough. I long to pull up under that old tree once more and hear the chatter. I ache to hug and be hugged by so many who have gone Home before me.

As I write today; I have to add to this dilemma the state of our country. This very day I ponder, what next will be but a memory? I really wonder, do you?

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6

In the midst of my peril, God’s Holy Spirit nudges my soul. He reminds me (and us) that He will never leave or forsake me. His plan is greater than I can imagine. When I miss my loved ones; and yes, even the tree, I can trust Him. When it seems we are sliding further into a sinful society, I can trust Him.

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Philippians 4:13

Click here for 101 encouraging verses.

I am praying with and for many of you who have lost loved ones this past year or so. Also, trusting God that, in His time, He will answer our prayers concerning our nation and the world.

In the meantime, let’s pray for one another and cling to the memories!

Looking forward to hearing from you; praying with and for you.

Hugs,

 

 

 

 

A Little Child shall lead Them

a little child shall lead them

Baby Reiley at Promise Point Baptist

The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; and the calf and the young lion and the fatling together, and a little child shall lead them … Isaiah 11:6

As I write this, my world has turned upside down. In the midst of it all, there is hope. I know Who holds me in His loving Hands.

The first week in August was long, tiring, and for the most part unsuccessful. One more long trip out of town following my cousin’s death was inevitable. However, my heart drew me back home Sunday for church. A close friend, Marilyn, was to be baptized in the river, I HAD to be there.

As often happens, the Lord spoke directly to my heart through the pastor’s message. Over sixty years as a Christian and I continue to be amazed at how the Holy Spirit meets the deepest, unspoken needs of my heart.

The breezy warm day was ideal for a dunkin’ in the river. As Pastor closed the service, a loud clap of thunder stopped us in our tracks. Thunder? no, no, NO!  Within minutes the parking lot was flooded as lightning again filled the sky. There would be no river baptism today.

All was lost. I should not have made the long trip home. Or, was this another one of God’s appointments?

“Susie, we didn’t get your picture with the baby. We need all of our church in Reiley’s Family album.” A very excited new grandmother was in my face with a camera as she plopped that wee one in my arms. Oh, my … I’d drive anywhere to cuddle that cutie again.

As I cradled that precious child in my arms, I knew that I knew that I knew. God always has a plan. I must learn to trust Him more. There is hope. There is a calm in the midst of my storm. there is assurance the promise of our permanent home where we all, God’s children, will have the peace of this little child. We will be cared for and nurtured and loved like no other can.

For some encouraging scriptures providing hope click here.

I do not know what my tomorrow holds, I do know it isn’t going as we had planned. I’ve not had time to comprehend the loss of my cousin/sister! It leaves me as the last remaining member of Momma’s family! Just now I am watching my amazing hubby struggle to breathe. We do know the Great Planner has each of us in the palm of His loving hand. I know, I KNOW we can trust Him.

Are you a Child of the King? Do you know beyond a shadow of a doubt your last breath here will be your next in Heaven?

There is a peace that passes all understanding as your Forever Family holds you up in prayer. Do you have that peace? If not, I have time to listen. Even in the midst of the wildest storm, you are loved.

Hugs,