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Are you weary, exhausted, stressed, worried, anxious and consistently on the verge of tears? Are there mornings where all you want to do is remain in bed and wallow in self-despair from lack of will to face the obstacles in your path?
As you most assuredly know, our lives are not always the proverbial, ‘Bowl of Cherries,’ that we desperately wish them to be. Like a ship on a stormy sea, we are often bombarded by strong winds, rain, lightning and walls of water cascading over the bow. It may at times feel that we’re about to drown in difficulties beyond our ability to control.
Been there? Or might you be there now?
Throughout my life, I’ve spent a good deal of time on my knees before God, pleading and begging and praying for divine intervention with tears rolling down my cheeks. Do I always get immediate resolution to my appeals before God’s throne? No, I don’t. But what I can tell you is that no matter how far-removed from God’s presence I may at times feel, or how uninvolved God may seem in my life’s circumstances, he is still there—lovingly inviting me to take refuge and seek rest in his presence.
There is nothing worse than feeling alone in our afflictions, or feeling that the path in front of us leads deeper into the void. I’m here to tell you my friend, that you are not alone, nor shall you ever be alone if you come to Jesus and bask in his infinite love, limitless peace and unending provision.
“All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others.” (2 Corinthians 1 vs 3, 4 NLT)
"Then Jesus said, 'Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.'” (Matthew 11 vs. 28, 29 NLT)
The next time you feel that your ship is about to slip below the waves, look up and see Jesus looking down at you with open arms. You might have to tread water for a while longer, but our Lord and Savior won’t leave your side. He’ll stay with you, carry your load, keep your head above water until such a time that he pulls you from the depths and sets you back onto solid ground.
Not sure about you, but I’m happy to find respite for my weary soul. As many times as it takes, I’ll return to the cross with all my heavyhearted baggage in hand, and happily exchange it for a well-rested spirit, calm heart and redeemed life.
Are you in?
Paul Smyth
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