“Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and will not be afraid; for the Lord God is my strength and my song, and he has become my salvation…Give thanks to the Lord, call upon his name, make known his deeds among the peoples; proclaim that his name is exalted. (Isaiah 12:2,4 ESV)

I have had a tough time lately, full-on aggravation.  This has involved my neighbours; criminal fraud; a thirteen week correspondence with the magistrate’s court and the D.V.L.A. (Driver’s Vehicle Licence) over a speeding fine and ban from driving.  I have been shaken by the unrelenting succession of life’s little curveballs.  So my self-esteem has had a bit of a knock as the one who considers himself as a safe pair of hands.  Then it has fallen to Caroline to do all the driving – not amused.  The consequence from the above has meant we could not go away in the caravan, something we as a family look forward to from year-to-year. 

I say this as an example of how the Evil One will do his best to undermine our confidence in God.  He seeks to give us cause to doubt Jesus’ Love for us. 

I felt a bit Job-like.  I recalled the upset when I was made redundant ten years ago and I found myself in danger of agreeing with the POM’s (Poor Old Me) exhumed from the past when I left.

Through this time God has shown His Love for us in many ways.  Sometimes, often, it takes a little longer than my faith would like.

All of the above, apart from the ongoing building, banging and power cutting next door, have been resolved because God has provided a way!  The bank has repaid the money taken from us, and we have bought a puppy called Daisy.  The court and DVLA have apologised and will reissue my Driver’s Licence.

My grand-daughter, Anastasia, was born in July.  Then, amazingly, we had a short holiday break, found the same day after Anastasia’s birth, a short walk away from where we go!  

Today, I can share a great testimony of how God has provided as I have called upon Him, and yet, Elijah-like I am emotionally and mentally exhausted contending.  Life keeps on with the curveballs and I feel done.

If you are willing, come with me today to Jesus, kneel at the throne and give Him everything, give the access into the damaged and the downtrodden parts of our beings.

He, whose promise is always faithful, said: Matthew 11:28-29: “Come to me, all who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (ESV)

Prayer: LORD, thank you for waiting for us, we who are too focused on doing life to see You as Life’s Answer, The Way. Comfort us as we lay down our burdens and our lives, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Rod Marshall
Roderick Marshall Blockspots