Peace, Rest, Quietness, Strength & Confidence

The last 16 months have been the most difficult of my life. I’ve been learning to live through what often feels like a storm with wind and waves. Some days it has felt like a roller coaster ride with wild twists and turns, and like going two steps forward and three steps back. With time flying both by or seeming not to move at all.

I haven’t always handled it well or right, but I take comfort that God knows. He knows me. He knew me in my mother’s womb and He is not surprised by any aspect of my life. At times I have felt so very weak, at others very strong – but in both cases I know He is carrying me. With uncertainty all around, He is faithful, and even reminds me of my dreams, and of His dreams for me. He isn’t surprised or worried. He has a plan, He’s always had a plan for me that includes love, redemption, forgiveness, grace, help just when I need it, and wisdom when I ask.

My part is to listen, trust and rest, to believe Him. To stay in faith even when I can’t see the way forward. To cast my care on Him because He cares, to live in expectation that He is working. Sometimes I must remind myself of what Jesus spoke to the storm, and that He is Christ in me, with me, always. I’ll close my eyes and say, “Peace, Be Still,” (agreeing with Him) and I choose to receive His peace.

I read in Isaiah 30 about the rebellion of the people and the graciousness of God, and this verse ministered to me… I am purposely leaving of the last 4 words (“but ye would not”) because I want Him to be able to say of me “and she did.”

For thus saith the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel: in returning and rest shall ye be saved; in quietness and confidence shall be your strength…” Isaiah 30:16

I pray that both you and I will always find in Him our peace, quietness, strength and confidence. Oh how He loves you and me!